Dear CoJMC students,
I hope you have read yesterday's statements from President Hank Bounds and Chancellor Ronnie Green in support of the University’s commitment to the right to free speech for all our students.
Freedom of speech and of the press is essential to who we are as journalists, broadcasters, photojournalists and communicators. We must have the ability to inquire, investigate, discuss, debate and disseminate. We must be free to speak and tell our stories. What we say will not always be pleasant. It may be difficult, disconcerting or even offensive, but we cannot fulfill our responsibilities as citizens or professionals without the right to speak.
Amendment I
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.
I encourage you to reflect today on the importance of the First Amendment and what it means to you, not only as a citizen but as a student and prospective professional.
Maria B. Marron
Dean and Professor