Freedom of Information Day

Information plays an extremely important role in life because it is directly related to the interests of people in all fields. Information is also the "oxygen of democracy", as the Global Campaign for Freedom of Expression asserts. Freedom of information - including freedom to seek, store, impart and use information in any form - is considered one of the fundamental human rights. March 16 every year is Freedom of Information Day, held annually to highlight the importance of freedom of information, improve people's understanding with freedom of information, encourage people to find and present the information they want to know.

History of Freedom of Information Day

Jim Bohannon, a nationally syndicated radio talk show host on Westwood 1 stations, founded National Freedom of Information Day. The US Government websites also recognize and document this date. It is also the anniversary of birth of President James Madison. Madison is known as the Father of the Constitution and a leading advocate of open government. Additionally, historians praise Madison as instrumental in drafting the US Constitution and as a leading advocate and author of the Bill of Rights. Madison values ​​individual rights and freedom of information.

How to celebrate Freedom of Information Day

This day reminds us that the Freedom of Information Act provides us with a tool to keep us informed. While any record may be requested, individual records require the consent of the party in question. See FAQs from FOIA.gov.

Learn more about the Freedom of Information Act and its impact on your rights. Visit the FOIA.gov website to read more about this action. Exercise your right to access some materials without restrictions. Learn how to access and request records.

Learn more about James Madison, his presidency, and his work for the young America. E.g.:

Read Federalist Articles

You also are encouraged to visit the James Madison Museum of Orange County in Orange, Virginia to improve your understanding of information and to understand more about Madison and his decisions.

See A More Perfect Union (1989), told from the point of view of James Madison.

Be sure to invite others to study with you. As you know, it is best to Celebrate Every Day with others! Use #FreedomOfInformationDay to post on social media.