National FOIA Hall of Fame

A salute to those who have pursued the people’s right to know.

The right to know about the actions of government is an important part of America’s democratic heritage. The right was established on July 4, 1966, when President Johnson signed the Freedom of Information Act. In 1974, FOIA was strengthened with the passage of key amendments. As a result, transparency has reduced corruption, lowered taxes, and saved lives.

A coalition of media organizations joined in 1996 to commemorate the 30th anniversary of FOIA, led by Freedom Forum’s First Amendment Center and the Society of Professional Journalists. The Hall of Fame has recognized key individuals who have demonstrated strong leadership in improving FOIA. In 2025, the Hall of Fame was transferred to the Joseph L. Brechner Freedom of Information Project at the University of Florida, which coordinates national Sunshine Week. The Hall of Fame complements the Heroes of the States: The State Open Government Hall of Fame, coordinated by the National Freedom of Information Coalition and Society of Professional Journalists to recognize those at the state level advancing government transparency.

The individuals listed here are honored for their unique roles in helping to establish, defend and utilize the legal basis for the right to know. Following James Madison’s special tribute, they are listed in alphabetical order by class.

Nominations open for 2026 Hall of Fame class

Nominations are open for the 2026 Hall of Fame class of individuals who have significantly contributed to the advancement of U.S. federal FOIA. Complete the online form by Sept. 1, 2025. Self-nominations are welcome. A committee will select the winners, who will be honored at Sunshine Fest in mid-March 2026 in Washington, D.C.

“A popular Government, without popular information, or the means of acquiring it, is but a Prologue to a Farce or a Tragedy; or, perhaps both. Knowledge will forever govern ignorance: And a people who mean to be their own Governors, must arm themselves with the power which knowledge gives.”

— James Madison, 1996 special recognition

 

“Democracy cannot exist if the government is not accountable to the public. FOIA provides the public with a mechanism to learn what government does in its name, as well as to benefit from the information collected and maintained at taxpayers’ expense.”

— Jane Kirtley, 1996 charter member

 

“For all of its defects and limitations, FOIA has been—and still is—an absolutely indispensable tool for journalists, human rights advocates, and ordinary citizens committed to making their government more transparent and more accountable.”

— Jameel Jaffer, 2016 member

 
  • Special Recognition
  • Class of 1996
  • Class of 2001
  • Class of 2006
  • Class of 2011
  • Class of 2016