We must never forget that we, the citizens, are the government of the United States of America. We must have access not only to our elected and appointed representatives as well as to the decisions they have made along with the paperwork trail.
Yes, there are times when national security plays a part in denying a citizen’s right to know. However, when national security is used to cover up any dirty deeds done by officials, then it is our solemn right not only to know, but to prosecute as well.
I have requested information from both the municipal and school departments in the Town of Windham. Both have responded quickly and responsively, to a point. By that I mean be careful what you ask for. One should only receive what was exactly asked for, nothing less and nothing more. The State of Maine usually takes longer to respond but does so in one way or another. I did receive a phone call on my last request as the information requested was online and I was instructed where to find it.
Requesting information under the Freedom of Information Act (in Maine, known as the Privacy Act) is simple and yet can have profound effects. Take, for example, the case of the Maine Department of Environmental Protection and a paper mill. After investigations began of inappropriate proceedings, the head of the Maine DEP left office. The same has happened across this great nation at all levels.
I was privileged to serve in the U.S. Army for twenty years and five years was in the Pentagon, where I had access to high levels of government. As a young soldier I was amazed to see up close and personal a president of this great nation resign. It was absolutely amazing to see that our government can correct itself when necessary. The only thing I had wrong (I had a long-standing bet) was who was the person known as Deep Throat. I went for a news anchor and was wrong, maybe. The story here is that reporters sensing the greatest story of their lives did what was right.
To request information about our government is not criminal, unjust or harassment. We must always be the overseers of our elected and appointed officials. If we don’t, pray tell who will? There have been lawsuits filed against our government at all levels. Shouldn’t we, the taxpayers, be informed as to where our tax dollars have been lost to out-of-court settlements in lawsuits? It has happened right here in Windham.
“Those who deny freedom to others deserve it not for themselves.” Abraham Lincoln.
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