Sheila Jackson Lee: “As a senior member of the Committee on the Judiciary, I rise in strong support of H. Res. 345, in commemoration of World…”

“As a senior member of the Committee on the Judiciary, I rise in strong support of H. Res. 345, in commemoration of World Press Freedom Day. This resolution recognizes widening threats to freedoms of the press and expression around the world, affirms the centrality of a free and independent press to the health of democracy, and holds freedom of the press as a central principle in promoting democracy, human rights, and good governance in commemoration of World Press Freedom Day on May 3, 2019. In this resolution, the House of Representatives: Expresses concern about threats to freedom of the press and free expression around the world on the occasion of World Press Freedom Day; commends journalists and media workers around the world, despite threats to their safety, for their essential role in-- promoting government accountability; defending democratic activity; and strengthening civil society; pays tribute to journalists who have lost their lives carrying out their work; calls on governments abroad to implement United Nations General Assembly Resolution 163 (2013), by thoroughly investigating and seeking to resolve outstanding cases of violence against journalists, including murders and kidnappings, while ensuring the protection of witnesses. Mr. Speaker, H. Res.…”