Building on four decades of thought leadership, The Media Institute is regarded as one of the country's leading non-partisan organizations that focuses on the First Amendment and communications policy.The Media Institute is a nonprofit foundation specializing in communications policy issues of concern to all Americans. The Institute exists to foster three goals:Promote Freedom of Speech.Encourage a competitive media environment and communications industry.Recognize excellence in journalism.Founded in 1979, The Media Institute pursues an active program agenda that encompasses virtually all sectors of the media including print, broadcast, cable, satellite, telecom, digital, and online services.The Institute publishes issue papers and policy analyses, prepares regulatory filings and court briefs, convenes conferences, and sponsors the Communications Forum Luncheon Series in Washington, D.C., for journalists and communications executives.As the founder of Free Speech Week, The Media Institute coordinates this annual nationwide celebration every October.The Media Institute is an independent educational foundation and is not affiliated with any other organization. It is not a trade association or lobbying group. For 40 years, the Institute has been independent in its choices of programs, issues, and policy positions.