OpenTheGovernme nt.org is a coalition of journalists, consumer and good government groups, environmentalis ts, library groups, labor groups and others united to make the federal government a more open place in order to make the United States safer, strengthen public trust in the government and support our democratic principles. Our Statement of Values: To protect the safety and well-being of our families, homes, and communities; to hold our government accountable; and to defend the freedoms upon which our democracy depends. We believe the public has a right to information held by our government. The American way of life demands that government operate in the open to be responsive to the public, to foster trust and confidence in government, and to encourage public participation in civic and government institutions. The public's right to know promotes equal and equitable access to government, encourages integrity in official conduct, and prevents undisclosed and undue influence from special interests. OpenTheGovernme nt.org seeks to advance the public's right to know and to reduce secrecy in government.