Ironwood and other troubled teen industry facilities have built their empires on the backs of vulnerable youth, capitalizing on their misfortunes by engaging in abusive and neglectful practices. These institutions use the threat of litigation to silence any opposition and stifle public perception of their damaging activities.

It is imperative that the media, our bastion of truth and accountability, remains unwavering in its commitment to inform the public, free from the oppressive grip of fear or intimidation. News Center Maine produced a documentary that shines a light on the practices inside Ironwood and the troubled teen industry at large. This documentary represents not only a significant investigative undertaking but also a necessary step towards unveiling the grim realities faced by youths trapped within these institutions.

However, the looming threat of legal action for defamation has hindered its release, potentially keeping invaluable insights and hard truths away from the public eye. Allowing intimidation tactics to stall this documentary is an affront to our First Amendment rights that guarantee freedom of speech and press.

Our society's core is built upon the dissemination of information and the relentless pursuit of truth. A documentary holding the power to incite critical conversations and catalyze change must not be suppressed. News Center Maine, like any media entity, deserves to operate without fear of legal reprisals when the content is factual and contributes to public awareness.

Call upon News Center Maine to resist these intimidations and air its documentary on Ironwood and the troubled teen industry. Stand with those who believe in justice, transparency, and the importance of shedding light on injustices.

Sign this petition to pave the way for truth, accountability, and the protection of free press. Stand up against the silencing of voices speaking out for the vulnerable and underserved.