AFP, WASHINGTONJust steps from the US Capitol in Washington, the Newseum’s gleaming glass-and-steel structure has for more than a decade been a shining symbol for the press and free expression. However, in a reflection of the woes facing the US media industry — which is itself struggling financially while also facing repeated attacks from political leaders — the Newseum is to close its doors on Tuesday next week. Over its two decades, the Newseum has welcomed about 10 million visitors and hosted hundreds of media events and conferences. “I was looking at the wall showing the exhibit about journalists killed in action, and it makes me realize how important a free press is,” she said. “In the current political climate, it’s so important for kids to be media-literate, to learn about the value of a free press.”
