In North America, the threats to press freedom are subtle but are still present in court rulings, privacy law litigation and the absence of a federal shield law, according to participants in RJI’s first webinar, The Erosion of Free Press in North America. More than 100 people joined in the discussion, online as well as at RJI, that focused on the need for greater vigilance in support of press freedom.
Panelists included: Toni Locy, a former reporter for USA Today who was held in contempt of court for refusing to name her confidential sources who had discussed a former Army scientist’s possible role in the 2001 anthrax attacks; Philip Gailey, retired editor of editorials, St. Petersburg Times; Stuart Loory, Lee Hills Chair in Free-Press Studies at the Missouri School of Journalism; Charles Davis, executive director, National Freedom of Information Coalition (NFOIC ); and Milton Coleman, senior editor, The Washington Post, who joined via computer from the Post’s newsroom.
Review the video for an informative discussion and detailed examination of the dangers that put journalists – and the right of freedom of expression -- at risk.
“Freedom of the Press
remains strong in this country but it must be preserved against attacks
from many who want to see it controlled.”
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