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It is something I have never thought to question.
A citizen in a democracy has a right to all information, and to decide for themselves. Any other system seems in conflict with "ignorance is not an excuse."
How can I know what I am not allowed, or think your proper thoughts before they cross your mind to inform my ignorance.
I'm not sure you're interpreting that phrase in the way other people are. I think the standard interpretation of "ignorance is not an excuse" is "not being aware of a crime being illegal is not a legitimate defence if you commit that crime".
You seem to be thinking more about freedom of information, or education?
It is just a higher level of abstraction with the overlying ethical principles and morality, like a conversation with an autocrat where their word is law.
But what do you actually mean by "ignorance is no excuse"? You said that any system other tah democracy conflicts with the statement. But the standard meaning (the fact that you didn't realise you were breaking the law isn't an meaningful excuse in court) absolutely applies in autocracies or whatever. The point is certain actions are illegal and doing them will get you in trouble, whether you knew in advance or not.
I feel like you've got another meaning in mind, can you try and express it clearly?