DOJ Office of Information and Privacy: “On March 16 we celebrate the anniversary of James Madison’s birthday. Madison, traditionally viewed as the Father of the United States Constitution, is also seen by many as a defender of open government. He once wrote, “[a] popular Government, without popular information, or the means of acquiring it, is but a Prologue to a Farce or a Tragedy; or, perhaps, both. Knowledge will forever govern ignorance: And a people who mean to be their own Governors, must arm themselves with the power which knowledge gives.” In a similar vein, he asserted that “the advancement and diffusion of knowledge” is “the only Guardian of true liberty.” …With Madison’s views on the importance of an informed citizenry in mind, the occasion of James Madison’s birthday is an excellent opportunity for federal agencies to review their FOIA operations to ensure that this vital government function is receiving the attention it deserves.”