The NKyTribune is teaming up with PEN America on an international event celebrating the free press and free expression.
A public event, ’Voices for a Free Press,’ will take place at the World Peace Bell in Newport on Sunday, 4 – 6 p.m.
Click to go to PEN America’s website
“This is an open mic event,” said Judy Clabes, NKyTribune editor and publisher. “We hope the public will join us in speaking about the importance of a free press and its role in a democracy.”
Speaking briefly during the event will be area journalists, students, educators and area public officials, community activists, and citizens.
Representatives from Northern Kentucky University’s Scripps Howard Center for Civic Engagement and the College of Informatics, Thomas More University representatives, the University of Kentucky First Amendment Center and School of Journalism and Media, Society of Professional Journalists, and representatives of the region’s media outlets and the legal community.
There will be readings from the Constitution, poetry related to free expression, writings of Jamal Khashoggi, April Ryan, various op-eds and columns and from PEN America.
The Peace Bell will ring on the hour — at 4 p.m., 5 p.m., and 6 p.m.
“As we join in this international exercise, we will offer gentle reminders of the vital role of the free press and the rights of every American citizen to free expression,” said Clabes.
Southbank Partners is hosting the event and will be providing coffee and cookies and other refreshments.
The event is free and is open to the public. If you want to speak, please contact Judy Clabes at judy@nkytribune.com. The public will be accommodated, but those who have signed up in advance will be given priority.
