The Tully Center for Free Speech stands behind Newhouse alumna Rebekah Jones ’12, the Florida data scientist and whistleblower.
Throughout this global pandemic, the public and the press have relied on public health experts, scientists and medical professionals for information. Some whistleblowers have also come forward with important details and information.
Many contemporary public crises benefit from the flow of information delivered by critics, dissidents and whistleblowers. While these controversies initially play out in the media and the court of public opinion, there is also a process that will help sort out the issues through the legal and judicial system.
Whistleblowers sometimes take significant risks to their safety, security and freedom to let the public know important information. In 2011, the Tully Center hosted the historic whistleblower Daniel Ellsberg, who in 1971 leaked the Pentagon Papers to The New York Times and The Washington Post. He faced scathing criticism and time in jail, but history has proven his revelations worthy of the risk.
As this week has progressed and more details have emerged from Florida, there are still more questions than answers in this case. Eventually, the full story and all the facts will be revealed.
This case continues to evolve, and the Tully Center for Free Speech continues to support First Amendment values, the free flow of information and Rebekah Jones.