In times when the government launches an unprecedented attack on the exchange of ideas, journalists play a critical role in ensuring democracy is upheld. When journalists and the media cower before the state, the ideas are no longer free and independent.
Student journalists must speak their minds freely and advocate for their beliefs fearlessly. Even though the current administration is targeting anyone who disagrees with its policy, standing up in opposition demonstrates strength, not weakness.
In the past, journalists have been targeted when corrupt governments use their power to expose abuse and wrongdoing. Journalist Jamal Khashoggi, who criticized the Saudi government and its rulers, was brutally abducted and dismembered by Saudi officials in 2018. In 2024, UNESCO reported that at least 68 journalists were killed in the pursuit of what is right.
Despite such adversity, the work of journalists has brought the world closer to the truth. When former President Richard Nixon attempted to attack The New York Times by censoring their Watergate coverage, the publication resisted, eventually having the U.S. Supreme Court decide that the press always had the right to censure the government.
Despite all the progress journalism has made in advancing the freedom of speech and expression, the current administration seeks to take it away by weakening journalistic power. From labeling news sources as the “mainstream media” to not responding to journalists with pronoun labels, the Trump administration has done everything to stop journalists who disagree from pursuing their work. In February, the White House announced that it would now select who would have access to President Donald Trump in the press room. Not only does this decision set a dangerous precedent that threatens government transparency, but it erodes the credibility of the administration.
Though it is clear the administration is attacking journalistic expression, what is unclear is how the right to free expression should be preserved. As much as people fear losing their jobs, vehement opposition and continuing journalism’s role in uncovering the truth is the difficult way forward. The more silent people are, the more impartiality and freedom is taken away.
Strength in this struggle is seen through numbers. Though numerous law firms, journalists, media outlets and private universities have been viciously attacked, opposition remains stable and strong. The government attempts to target these private corporations and institutions when it knows it does not have the constitutional authority to do so.
As judges across the country continue to strike down the administration’s erroneous orders and actions, journalists, activists and those who oppose government overreach should feel that their actions in voicing opposition matter. That said, The Tulane Hullabaloo must continue being the voice of students and the community, as the university administration cowardly obeys government demands. If the institution cannot act on behalf of Tulane University’s values, journalism and the student body will.