In my line of work, perhaps the most treasured value is truth. At RoseComm, and in every job I’ve had, the work I do seeks truth and relies on transparent and open communication.
It’s easy to take it for granted.
We wake up to news alerts from trusted sources on our phones. We Skimm headlines and news briefs on the commute to work. We follow our preferred outlets on social when we’re at the office. We work closely with journalists every day to tell our clients’ most newsworthy stories.
But freedom of the press isn’t a given. Our work with Press Uncuffed and the Committee to Protect Journalists, which began three years ago, is a constant reminder for my team and me. Every year, journalists across the world fall victim to wrongful convictions, extended imprisonment and even death at the hands of those who see the truth as a threat.
When a professor at New Jersey City University invited me to speak to her students on the subject of press freedom, I couldn’t turn it down. An advisor to the student newspaper, The Gothic Times, Theta Pavis wanted the students on the editorial staff to understand the gravity of truth – and just how dangerous it is for journalists around the world who are exposing it. When I arrived, I found the students I addressed to be thoughtful, passionate and extremely receptive to what I had to say about press freedom and the work my firm has done in support of that cause. Clearly, these young adults have a commitment to their own work, and take journalism as seriously as seasoned media professionals.
I felt inspired. While 10 of the initial 13 journalists Press Uncuffed sought to free were released, there is still work to be done. While my team at RoseComm, those at CPJ and everyone involved with Press Uncuffed all know this, to have that message received so sincerely by a new generation – the next one whose task it will be to uphold the value of truth and the cause of press freedom – was a moving experience. Nearly every student in attendance came to my team after I spoke to get their own Press Uncuffed bracelet, ready and willing to literally wear the cause on their sleeve.
With World Press Freedom Day coming up next week, you can show your support by getting a Press Uncuffed bracelet for yourself here. Comment below to (freely) express how you view the importance of the free flow of information or other ways people can take up the cause.