Grant will support work defending press freedom, government transparency and civic engagement
The First Amendment Coalition is delighted to announce a $75,000 gift from Craig Newmark Philanthropies to fuel the nonprofit’s work defending a free press, free expression and the public’s right to know.
The grant will support all FAC programs, including its free Legal Hotline, open to all; its legal support for journalists; and its strategic litigation program, which for over 30 years has helped ensure the public and press have access to the halls of power — and a voice to challenge or criticize what they find there.
FAC’s legal work has expanded in recent years to include the defense of journalists targeted for their confidential sources and notes. And its educational programming has grown to include customized seminars and guides that give journalists, lawyers and community activists tools they need.
“Democracy at all levels cannot function without the free flow of information or without a robust press working without fear to uncover the truth,” said Craig Newmark, founder of craigslist and Craig Newmark Philanthropies. “FAC’s work helps ensure all of these things, and therefore the more fundamental ideal of ensuring that government — local, state and federal — is both transparent and accountable to an engaged citizenry.”
“This gift helps ensure FAC’s continuing growth — the expansion of our work defending the right of the press to find and illuminate the truth, the right of the public to access the levers of power; and the right of all to ensure that government is transparent and working on behalf of the people,” said FAC Executive Director David Snyder. “We are so grateful to Craig for his support of these important ideals, which require constant vigilance and support.”
In addition to FAC’s advocacy in the courtroom and beyond, the organization last year served nearly 900 constituents through its free Legal Hotline, open to anyone with questions about their First Amendment or freedom-of-information rights. FAC’s lawyers helped ensure the release of thousands of pages of internal police records, and the unsealing of previously secret court records. And FAC hosted nearly two dozen live forums and custom workshops. Read more in FAC’s 2021 Impact Report.
About the First Amendment Coalition
FAC is a nonprofit that advances free speech, government transparency and public participation in civic affairs. FAC defends press freedom through its journalist Subpoena Defense Initiative and combats government secrecy through its strategic litigation program. Become a member of the coalition today (membership is free).
About Craig Newmark Philanthropies
Craig Newmark Philanthropies was created by craigslist founder Craig Newmark to support and connect people and drive broad civic engagement. The organization works to advance people and grassroots organizations that are getting stuff done in areas that include trustworthy journalism, voter protection, gender diversity in technology, and veterans and military families. For more information, please visit: CraigNewmarkPhilanthropies.org.
Contact
First Amendment Coalition
FAC@firstamendmentcoalition.org
Craig Newmark Philanthropies
press@craignewmarkphilanthropies.or