From young reader to engaged citizen

From young reader to engaged citizen
By John Seigenthaler
First Amendment Center founder
09.17.07

Today marks the 220th anniversary of the signing of the Constitution. In the past 220 years this charter has proved itself to be the "greatest form of self-government ever conceived," John Seigenthaler, First Amendment Center founder said. Therefore today is a day to reflect on its 220 years of successful existence and evaluate how it has evolved.

With the implementation of the Constitution also came reservations. George Mason was one man who certainly had qualms about the absence of any protection of the free-expression rights of citizens in the Constitution. His leadership lead to the creation of the Bill of Rights, which was ratified into the Constitution approximately 2 1/2 years later, including the ever so important freedom of the press.

Seigenthaler suggests that while Americans are examining the importance of the Constitution today they should recognize its connection with free press and observe the vital role it has had in U.S. history. Seigenthaler takes time to point out how much newspapers have shaped opinion. Whether it was creating outrage against injustice or bringing hope back to the people in desperate times. Newspapers have provided crucial information on candidates during times of election to help further educate the public.

The bad news, Seigenthaler says, is the number of young citizens who vote has been on a steady decline since 1972. "Apathy and ignorance are endangering the future of democracy," Seigenthaler says.

Seigenthaler makes a very valid argument about the importance of free press and the newspaper. He proposes using more newspapers in the classrooms to try and create an interest in current events and politics for the younger generations. This would hopefully help to kill the apathy and ignorance that is so strong in this generation. All opinions aside, free press is a vital pillar which enables democracy.