Justin Silverman, executive director of the New England First Amendment Coalition, Author at The New Bedford Light

Opinion: New Bedford has a secrecy problem

by Justin Silverman, executive director of the New England First Amendment Coalition June 5, 2025June 17, 2025

It’s time for city leaders to recommit themselves to transparency — and for every New Bedford resident to demand more accountability.

Community Voices

Essay: Honor Sunshine Week by requiring hybrid access to government meetings

by Justin Silverman, executive director of the New England First Amendment Coalition and Kellen Riell March 16, 2023March 16, 2023

Permanent changes need to be made to state laws to require both in-person and remote access to government meetings. People with … circumstances that prevent in-person attendance at these meetings are at risk of again being shut out of the democratic process.

Community Voices

Opinion: Despite our nation’s polarization, we can all agree on government transparency

by Justin Silverman, executive director of the New England First Amendment Coalition March 17, 2022April 29, 2025

“Thoughtful debate about serious issues is central to our democracy. But solving real problems is impossible when every issue is viewed through a distorted lens.” Sunshine laws allow the public to get the facts needed for thoughtful discussion. When it comes to open government, we’re all stakeholders.