World Press Freedom Day 2023

MAY 3, 2023

WHEREAS, a healthy, professional news media is essential for the proper functioning of civil society and democracy at the local, regional, federal and international levels; and

WHEREAS, UNESCO notes that press freedom is a keystone in enabling freedom of expression, (WPFD concept note p.3); and

WHEREAS, according to Canada’s federal governments Canadian Heritage department, from 2008 to August 2021, almost 450 news outlets have closed, with nearly 63 of those closures happening since the COVID-9 pandemic began.

NOW THEREFORE, I, Ken Boshcoff, Mayor of the City of Thunder Bay, do hereby proclaim May 3, 2022 as World Press Freedom Day in the City of Thunder Bay.