FREEDOM OF INFORMATION: THE RIGHT TO KNOW

Moderator: Scott Suttell, Special projects editor, Crain's Cleveland Business
Scott Suttell joined Crain's in March 1995 as sections editor. He became managing editor in August 2000 and then in August 2023 was named special projects editor at Crain's Cleveland Business.

Panelists include:
Andrew Geronimo, JD, Director of the First Amendment Clinic, Case Western University School of Law
Andrew Geronimo's teaching and advocacy focus on civil litigation involving free speech, free press and government transparency issues. He has handled numerouis First Amendment cases in the State and Frederal Courts of Ohio

Kris Harsh, City of Cleveland Council Member
Councilman Kris Harsh proudly represents Ward 13, which encompasses Old Brooklyn and part of the Stockyard neighborhoods. A lifelong advocate for housing justice and community development, Councilman Harsh brings years of grassroots experience and public service to his role on Cleveland City Council.

Sia Nyorkor, News Reporter
An Emmy and award-winning journalist with more than 20 years of experience across television, radio, documentary, digital, social, and OTT platforms, Sia Nyorkor joined 3News as an anchor and reporter in 2025. Sia reports for 3News at 11 p.m. weekdays and co-anchors Front Row Friday at 7 p.m. and the Friday edition of 3News at 11 p.m.

The U.S. Constitution allows citizens to be informed about the actions of their government, which helps hold officials accountable and serves as a crucial check against corruption or misconduct. This was so important to the founding fathers that they protected freedom of the press under the First Amendment.

Freedom of the press is now under fire, meeting roadblocks at all levels of government. One local Cleveland official wants media outlets to be accredited by a government agency. The City of Cleveland is requiring reporters to make an appointment to enter public buildings, and at least one local courtroom tried to stop a reporter from observing arraignments and shooting photos on three occasions.

This forum will help you better understand what's happening, how it impacts you, and our rights to report public information.