The Joseph L. Brechner Freedom of Information Project would like your suggestions on this online form for how to make Sunshine Fest 2025 a success in identifying solutions to the most pressing issues in freedom of information. 

Sunshine Fest is intended to bring together a broad array of interests to tackle the biggest challenges in government transparency and celebrate the 20th anniversary of Sunshine Week. About 175 people will gather in Washington, D.C., on March 19-20 to workshop issues and solutions on topics that: 

• Are of interest and importance to both requesters and government agencies. 

• Cross geographic boundaries – local, state, federal and global. 

• Cross disciplines – journalism, civil society, history, archives, public administration, record custodians, academia, law, commercial sector, etc. 

• Foster understanding, empathy and constructive common-sense solutions. 

• Break conventional boundaries – bring news ideas and perspectives to inspire positive change and innovation. 

The goal is to produce an actionable compact for addressing issues and begin building a broad-based coalition for freedom of information. Online gatherings and communications will be facilitated before and after the gathering. 

Some topics might include the latest technologies to improve searches/redactions (e.g., AI), how to handle voluminous requests, educating the public, effective dispute resolution outside of litigation, funding freedom of information, and research needs. 

We have put together an online form to gather your suggestions, with the following questions: 

• What topics would you suggest are imperative to include on the agenda for discussion, that meet the above five criteria of the conference? 

• Who would be ideal speakers/experts to share their insights? 

• Who would be possible keynote speakers with significant reach, even of interest to average people? 

• What other recommendations/suggestions do you have for a successful gathering? 

We hope to hear from you! 

Posted: December 19, 2024
Category: Brechner News
Tagged as: Brechner Center for Freedom of Information, Brechner FOI Project, Brechner Freedom of Information Project, FOI, Sunshine Fest, Sunshine Week