Every year on March 16, the birthday of former President James Madison, Freedom of Information Day is observed. This day ensures that the public is aware of all government information and is provided with all pertinent data. The government may keep track of the decisions it makes, the facts it discovers, and sometimes private information on individuals for surveillance purposes. Under the Freedom of Information Act, an individual may request the information they desire, and it will be provided at no cost or for a nominal fee.
The background of Freedom of Information Day
We do not know when the first Freedom of Information Day was observed. However, the day is celebrated on the birthday of James Madison, the fourth President of the United States, who was born on March 16, 1751. He is known as the “Father of the Constitution” for his role in drafting and promoting the American Constitution and the Bill of Rights.
The Freedom of Information Act (F.O.I.A.) was enacted on July 4, 1966, and became effective the following year. The date was selected because Madison was an advocate for data freedom and individual rights to access accurate information. This day functions as an annual reminder of the importance of government transparency and the public’s right to access information.
The right to information was the result of the efforts of several individuals who fought for it their entire lives. Freedom of Information Day commemorates the concept of free information, which gives people more power and transparency and strengthens democracies. Everyone plays an identical role in the governance of the nation, which means that everyone’s vote is significant. The same holds true for information liberation. Every citizen deserves access to government-related information. This assists individuals in making vital decisions and ensures that their government and elected representatives service them effectively.
World Information Architecture Day 2023: Date, History, Facts
5 FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT FACTS THAT WILL BLOW YOUR MIND
The bill was enacted into law, but he did not support the Freedom of Information Act.
After Watergate, the first amendment to the law occurred in 1974.
The 1996 Amendments to the Electronic Freedom of Information Act enable for the freedom of online information.
The Freedom of Information Act does not apply to Congress, the Judiciary, or the central offices of the White House.
Requests can be submitted via mail, fax, email, or online forms.
National Religious Freedom Day 2023: Date, History, Significance
FREEDOM OF INFORMATION DAY DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | March 16 | Thursday |
| 2024 | March 16 | Saturday |
| 2025 | March 16 | Sunday |
| 2026 | March 16 | Monday |
| 2027 | March 16 | Tuesday |