Are we entering a new era of openness in government? And are journalists up to the challenge?

President Barack Obama issued a memo on Jan. 21, expressing his adminstration's support for the Freedom of Information Act.

The memo included this statement: "The Government should not keep information confidential merely because public officials might be embarrassed by disclosure, because errors and failures might be revealed, or because of speculative or abstract fears. Nondisclosure should never be based on an effort to protect the personal interests of Government officials at the expense of those they are supposed to serve."

In light of his support for open records and the Freedom of Information Act, do you think other public, governmental bodies will follow suit and be more willing to open their records for the public? And will journalists be emboldened to make open records requests and demand government accountability?

Are we entering a new era of openness in government with the Obama presidency as a role model?

History in the making

Today we celebrate the 80th anniversary of the birth of the Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. and in two weeks we will pause to celebrate 200 years since the birth of another former Illinois legislator--Abraham Lincoln. With less than 15 hours until the swearing-in ceremony for the first black President of the United States, it is worth noting that the 44th president is standing on the shoulders of giants. Those giants include President Lincoln and MLK Jr. Few other historical figures capture such intense devotion to the themes of freedom and justice while celebrating the strength of human character.

The Inaugural Address is expected to be yet another masterful demonstration of Obama's rhetorical skill. He will most certainly continue his themes of hope and change...while squarely acknowledging the daunting challenges that await his presidency. Previous inauguration addresses have reminded us that, "We have nothing to fear but fear itself" (FDR) and challenged us to, "Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country" (JFK).

Mass media have historically allowed us to celebrate our finest moments, and witness our greatest tragedies, via the miracle of instantaneous community. Whether we're watching the Superbowl or witnessing planes flying into skyscrapers, TV, and now the internet, brings us together in ways that defy the imagination.

For those of you on campus Tues morning, you can watch the Inauguration and related festivities on big-screen TVs in BRH and the OUC. If you're near a computer you can watch the live stream at a variety of sites including Hulu and Current TV, where they will reprise their debate coverage with a live Twitter stream superimposed over the live video of the inauguration.

You owe it to your children to give your attention to this historic event. The country is awash in optimism, hope and faith in the ability of this yet untried president. Let's join together to wish him, and this nation, the best.