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Navigating Online Threats: A Vital Webinar for Journalists

In today's digital landscape, journalists find themselves increasingly vulnerable to online threats. A recent survey conducted by the International Women's Media Foundation highlighted this concerning trend; about 33% of participating journalists reported experiencing some form of digital violence. This issue is especially acute for women journalists, with findings from a 2020 UNESCO study indicating that nearly three-quarters of female respondents had encountered online harassment.

Recognizing these alarming statistics, the National Press Club Journalism Institute is hosting a free webinar on December 13, aimed at equipping journalists with the tools necessary to navigate and combat these digital threats. The session will feature insightful discussions led by experts in the field, providing participants with crucial information on how to recognize, address, and respond to online harassment effectively.

What to Expect from the Webinar

The webinar scheduled from 11 a.m. to noon ET will cover:

• - Types of Online Harassment: Understanding the various forms of digital violence that journalists may encounter. From trolling and doxxing to threats of physical harm, knowing what to look for is key to developing an effective response.
• - When to Take Action: Journalists often grapple with the decision of whether to ignore harassment or take it seriously. The session will address this ambiguity, offering guidance on navigating these challenging situations.
• - Legal Tools: What rights do journalists have when faced with harassment? Participants will hear from legal experts on what constitutes illegal harassment and how to safeguard oneself legally in the digital realm.
• - Proactive Steps: Prevention is always better than reaction. The experts will provide actionable steps that journalists can take today to bolster their online security and prepare for any potential threats.

Meet the Speakers

The webinar brings together an impressive lineup of speakers:

• - Tat Bellamy-Walker, Program Manager of Digital Safety Training and Resources at PEN America, specializing in providing guidance to journalists on digital safety practices.
• - María Salazar Ferro, Director of Newsroom Safety and Resilience at The New York Times, who focuses on strategies for ensuring journalist safety in increasingly hostile environments.
• - Greg Lipper, a D.C.-based litigator with extensive expertise in criminal defense and media law, will offer invaluable legal insights into handling harassment legally and effectively.

Importance of This Initiative

The National Press Club Journalism Institute is dedicated to fostering a free and engaged press to empower global citizenry. Through such initiatives, they emphasize the importance of protecting journalists, particularly as media becomes a target for hostility.

This webinar is made possible through grants and contributions, reflecting the Institute's commitment to providing free resources to its audience. The support received helps to sustain valuable training and programming for journalists striving to maintain their integrity and safety in the field.

Journalists interested in participating are encouraged to register for the event. It stands as an essential opportunity not just to learn, but to connect with fellow professionals who face similar challenges in this evolving digital landscape.

Register today and take a proactive step towards safeguarding your rights and digital presence as a journalist. Together, we can combat online threats effectively and ensure a safer environment for reporting the news.