Committee to Project Journalists now monitoring North America for threats against news media

The Committee to Project Journalists is now monitoring North America for the first time for violence against journalists as well as threats, intimidation, a lack of response to any of the above from law enforcement, and other access-related problems, according to CPJ's Avi Asher Schapiro and Stephanie Sugars.

The group has made a name for itself internationally for its work keeping journalists safe and/or negotiating their releases from hostile forces. However, Schapiro says that based on recent events and what appears to be a growing hostility toward the news media, the CPJ decided to add a North America Researcher and an assistant to begin tracking what's happening and connecting reporters to CPJ resources.

Schapiro and Sugars joined LION for a discussion of CPJ's new effort and mainly wanted to let reporters know that their group is available to reporters who may find themselves in danger on the job.

CPJ can provide advocacy through news coverage as well as direct services to help reporters improve their security. The group has a security consultant available to help reporters make themselves and their offices safer.

The following are links to some of CPJ's resources:

• cpj.org
• cpj.org/emergency-response/
• cpj.org/safety-advisories/
• cpj.org/safety-kit/

Journalists requiring further assistance should contact CPJ via report_violation@cpj.org

They also recommended the Troll-Busters.com site to help reporters deal with "pest" commenters or individuals that are causing problems.

Here is a handout describing CPJ's programs, and Stephane Sugars's latest post, which went live shortly before Wednesday webinar, includes details of several incidents starting with one in Wisconsin: Panic buttons, cameras, and a gun under the desk: Local newsrooms update security in wake of Capital Gazette attack

Watch a recording of Wednesday's discussion here (you will need to register), or listen to audio below: