Today, April 13th, the University of Virginia celebrates Founder’s Day. This year marks Thomas Jefferson’s 279th birthday, but it is also The Jefferson Independent’s 1st! One year ago today, we launched a brand new publication for UVA students, and reintroduced to Grounds a set of ideas and values that had been missing for far too long.
As the only student-run conservative, libertarian, and independent publication at the University of Virginia, The Jeff has committed itself to preserving UVA’s commitment to the “illimitable freedom of the human mind,” protecting and encouraging free speech, and following the truth “wherever it may lead.”
In just one short year, we’ve had quite a few accomplishments. Whether it was by reporting, opining, satirizing, or interviewing, we have sought to foster intellectual conversations on Grounds. And so far, we have succeeded. We have fought to make it known that alternative viewpoints exist and deserve to be heard. And people have listened.
Since April 13th, 2021, we have amassed over 500 subscribers, and reached thousands of students, parents, faculty, staff, and friends of the community. Most recently, The Jeff’s first editorial statement was quoted in Breitbart News and mentioned in the Washington Post.
In the coming weeks and months, we will continue to expand our presence on Grounds—we have much more work to do—and we will remain firm in our commitment to free expression and free inquiry, regardless of what may stand in the way. “Where the press is free… all is safe.”
Thank you for reading, subscribing, and sharing our work. Because of you, TJ’s legacy lives on.
Fantastic article. Yay to you, Will , Karoline, Glenn B, and everyone The Jeff team!
It is inspiring to realize you are one year old and have had such a significant year!👏👏👏
I try to read everything that you write!
The Jefferson Independent is a breath of fresh air in an atmosphere of stultifying, woke journalism on the Grounds of the University. Keep it up, and continue breathing logic and truth into the dank air.
Well done to all of you at The Jeff and thank you for being on the frontline of free speech!! Keep fighting the good fight. The University and society in general are better places for it.