Courtesy photo
Staff Report
Sunshine Week, the annual celebration of government openness and transparency ran March 16-22. Leading up to and during the week, events were held nationwide to highlight transparency in government.
There were legislative hearings, film screenings, public discussions, editorials, reports published, and awards presented recognizing those who have advanced government openness and transparency.
It all began in 2002 when Florida newspapers launched Sunshine Sunday as a single day to highlight the importance of government transparency. The event went nationwide and week-long in 2005 with the support of the American Society of News Editors (ASNE).
The week corresponds with James Madison’s birthday; Madison is considered the Founder most committed to creating a government of checks and balances. Good government organizations, including the Center for Effective Government, partner with ASNE each year to present Sunshine Week.