A Call to Supporters of Student Press Freedom: Why We Need You Now
By New Voices Texas
We are currently living through a tumultuous era for the First Amendment. From the erosion of public trust in media to the increasing challenges facing newsrooms across the country, the infrastructure of a free press is being tested as never before.
In this environment, the challenge of training and supporting the next generation of journalists is not merely an academic concern—it is a democratic imperative. Yet, at the very moment when young storytellers need the strongest protection to learn their craft, they are often the most vulnerable to administrative overreach.
The Reality in Texas
As advocates for the First Amendment, we know that a free press is the cornerstone of our democracy. However, across the state of Texas, student journalists in high schools and colleges face administrative censorship and prior review that would be unthinkable in a professional newsroom.
When we allow student voices to be silenced, we are not just suppressing a single story; we are teaching the next generation that the First Amendment is conditional, and that truth is subject to the permission of those in power. We believe that the “student” prefix should never function as a waiver of constitutional rights.
A New Chapter for the Movement
Since 2019, New Voices Texas—a nonpartisan, student-led grassroots coalition—has been working tirelessly to pass state legislation that protects the editorial independence of student media and prevents retaliation against journalism advisors.
Our student leaders have shown incredible resilience, but the path through the Texas Capitol is steep. We recognize that for this movement to finally cross the finish line, we need to bridge the gap between student passion and professional influence.
This is where you come in.
We are issuing a call to all journalists, lawyers, educators, and First Amendment supporters: Stand with our students. We are actively recruiting a coalition of adults and industry professionals to provide the strategic weight and mentorship necessary to turn our vision into law.
How You Can Serve
We have designed two distinct participation paths for adult supporters to join our leadership team:
- Path A: Full Leadership & Legacy Serve on the Steering Committee through May to help shape our immediate strategy, and then transition into a permanent member of our Advisory Board starting in June.
- Path B: Targeted Strategic Support Serve on the Steering Committee as a temporary adviser through the end of May to provide expert guidance during this critical spring window.
Why Your Voice Matters
The 2027 Texas Legislative Session represents a critical window for student press freedom. To succeed, our student advocates need the legal expertise, media strategy, and professional credibility that only veteran journalists and First Amendment experts can provide.
Your involvement signals to lawmakers that student press rights are not just a “school issue”—they are a fundamental priority for the entire Texas media landscape.
Important Deadlines
To ensure we have our team ready to take action this spring, please note the following application deadlines:
- Steering Committee Deadline: February 28
- Permanent Advisory Board Deadline: May 1
Join the Movement
If you are ready to help us protect the future of Texas journalism, please complete our brief interest form below. Let us know which path fits your schedule and how your unique expertise can help us empower the next generation.
Complete the New Voices Texas Interest Form Here
Together, we can ensure that the future of the First Amendment in Texas is bright, bold, and protected.
New Voices of Texas 