Crusaders explain importance of press freedom on Student Press Freedom Day

Nubia Rodriguez, Zoe Lampe, Luis Rivera Rede, and Ariel Morua • February 22, 2024

Today, Feb. 22, the Student Press Law Center and individual student journalism organizations such as Crusader News may be celebrating the sixth anniversary of the Student Press Freedom Day. The day is meant to bring awareness to anyone about the challenges and positives of student journalism, as well as the civil rights and responsibilities granted to student journalists. Student journalism at any level can provide opportunities for students to seek truth, justice and intrigue as they express themselves and create stories of all kinds for their audiences. Student journalism can also lead to moments where students need to make tough choices and expose uncomfortable truths as they tell their stories and provide needed information to the public. Journalists in general needs to report the truth whether it is inspirational or heartbreaking, after all, and many times throughout history journalists – student or otherwise – have had to stand firm and fight back against voices trying to manipulate or censor the truth coming to light.

We here at Crusader News reflected on Student Press Freedom Day, and asked ourselves: As student journalists, what does press freedom mean for us? Here are some of our individual answers:

About the Contributors

Nubia Rodriguez, Reporter

Nubia Rodriguez is a 19-year-old sophomore majoring in business administration and mass communications. Rodriguez plans to transfer to Fort Hays State University to pursue her bachelor's degree once she graduates, hoping to become a digital-content creator or dabble in digital-media marketing. She is excited to continue her involvement with TRIO and HALO this year. She enjoys making cute Instagram posts and playing tennis and golf in her free time.

Zoe Lampe, Reporter

Zoe Lampe is an 18-year-old freshman from Eaton, Colorado. She majors in mass communications. Lampe is excited to be starting college as well as being a part of the Lady Saints softball team. She loves to hang out with friends, play board games and go on random adventures. Lampe can't wait to see where life takes her.

Luis Rivera Rede, Reporter

Luis Rivera Rede is an 18-year-old freshman from Liberal, Kansas, currently majoring in liberal arts. Rivera is involved in choir and theater, and aspires to continue his passions as he finds out more about his future and what he wants to do. Rivera loves being with his friends and creating new memories whether they are on campus or anywhere they can cause some trouble. When not participating in the performing arts Rivera likes to draw, watch movies and read in his free time.

Ariel Morua, Reporter

Ariel Morua is a 19-year-old freshman born and raised in Liberal, Kansas, and currently majoring in marketing. Morua plans to transfer to Kansas State University to attain his bachelor's degree after leaving Seward County Community College, and also plans to join the study abroad program. He likes to play multiple instruments in his free time when he is not working out. He also enjoys traveling, nature, photography and spending time with his friends.