Arlington, Va., Oct. 5, 2007 – National Freedom of Speech Week (NFSW) will be celebrated Oct. 15 –21, 2007, with a wide range of organizations and schools around the country marking the week in various ways.

      Now in its third year, the week-long commemorative event celebrates freedom of speech in all its forms, as well as freedom of the press.

      Partnering Organizations include professional societies, trade associations, media and First Amendment groups, and educational institutions. In 2007, major media will be represented nationally by the National Association of Broadcasters Education Foundation, National Cable & Telecommunications Association, and the Newspaper Association of America Foundation.

      In addition, local media outlets and other groups are encouraged to participate at the community level. A fuller list of Partnering Organizations can be found at the NFSW website, www.freespeechweek.org. Groups wishing to participate can register online there at no charge.

      The Media Institute serves as coordinator and clearinghouse for the event.

      The week is intended to be a unifying celebration of free speech, bringing people together regardless of politics or ideology. Its goal is to raise public awareness of First Amendment rights, rather than advance any political or policy agenda.

      Information about The Media Institute can be found at www.mediainstitute.org.