They are called guardians for a reason. This year, @TIME honors journalists at home and abroad for relentlessly pursuing the truth in the face of unprecedented attacks from those who wish to silence them.
Over the past few years, but especially this year, freedom of the press has been under attack at home and abroad. Journalists have died or continue to risk their lives in pursuit of their stories. Many have been held prisoner or remain imprisoned.
America must decide whether it will continue to be the beacon of freedom our country’s founders hope we would be. A free press is essential to democracy. It speaks truth to power, and holds those with power accountable. We must protect that value, always.
