"In the future days which we seek to make secure, we look forward to a world founded upon four essential human freedoms.
"The first is freedom of speech and expression — everywhere in the world...."
In troubled times more than half a century ago, President Franklin Delano Roosevelt uttered the visionary principles that would inspire a nation and guide America through World War II and into the 21st century. He called them the "Four Freedoms" - Freedom of Speech and Expression, Freedom of Religion, Freedom From Want, and Freedom From Fear.
Over the past 60 years, these ideals have survived, and triumphed. Today, free speech defines our American way of life. It is indeed a triumph of our democracy - a freedom to be celebrated.
National Freedom of Speech Week IS that celebration!
At a time when scores of worthwhile causes are remembered with special weeks or even months, the annual celebration of free speech - the cornerstone of our democracy - is vital and long overdue. By celebrating freedom of speech for a full week every year, National Freedom of Speech Week will help ensure that free speech remains "The Language of America."
When Is the Week Celebrated?
National Freedom of Speech Week (NFSW) is celebrated during the third week of October every year. The next celebration will be October 20 - 26, 2008.
How Did NFSW Originate?
National Freedom of Speech Week was created by The Media Institute and launched in 2005 in partnership with the National Association of Broadcasters Education Foundation (NABEF). The Media Institute is a nonprofit organization located in Washington, D.C. Founded in 1979, the Institute is one of the country's leading "think tanks" focusing on the First Amendment and free-speech issues. The Institute maintains the NFSW Web site and serves as a clearinghouse for information about National Freedom of Speech Week. Find out more about The Media Institute at www.mediainstitute.org.
Who Can Participate in NFSW?
National Freedom of Speech Week is an event that ALL Americans can celebrate! Organizations of all types are especially encouraged to recognize and celebrate NFSW. Civic and community groups, schools, PTAs, companies, associations, media outlets, unions, nonprofit groups, libraries, scouting and youth groups - virtually any membership organization can take part in some way.
How Can We Participate?
As an Individual or Family:- RAISE FREE SPEECH AWARENESS by telling your friends about NFSW. Talk to your kids about freedom of speech and how it affects their lives.
- EXERCISE YOUR FREE SPEECH RIGHT by posting a message online. Compose a poem. Display a bumper sticker. Keep a journal. Write a letter to the editor. Speak out at a rally. Express yourself in the ways that work best for you. Just let your voice be heard!
- GET OTHERS INVOLVED by talking to the organizations you belong to. Tell them about NFSW, and ask them to become partnering organizations.
- BECOME A PARTNERING ORGANIZATION. It's fast and easy. Here's how.
Individuals, Families, and Organizations can celebrate NFSW in their communities by organizing a wide variety of local events. Here are some Ideas for Community Events to get you started. 
