The importance of fact-checking and the First Amendment

A CNN news crew including a reporter, Omar Jimenez, was arrested this morning during a live broadcast in Minneapolis.

This was a "clear violation of their First Amendment rights," according to a tweet from CNN Communications.

CNN was reporting the morning after violent protests erupted the night before in response to the incident of George Floyd, a 46-year-old black man who died moments after a white police officer kept his knee pinned to Floyd's neck despite his pleas.

In the video, you can clearly hear the CNN news crew repeatedly stating to the officers that they are with CNN and they are live on air.

"This is the four of us. We are one team. Just put us back where you want us. We are getting out of your way so just let us know." Jimenez says as he shows his press credentials. "Wherever you'd want us we will go."

To make matters worse, Minnesota State Patrol incorrectly tweeted that "the three were released once they were confirmed to be members of the media."

This is a perfect example of why fact-checking is important.

Fact-checking is not just crucial for writers, but for anyone.

It is important to keep in mind of citizens' rights — in this case, freedom of the press — especially during times like this when emotions run high.

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