Click Here For Reporters in Contempt
"Investigative Reporters and Editors Inc. joins with journalism groups and news organizations in condemning the judicial punishment of reporters who refuse to reveal confidential sources when alternative ways of getting the same information remain available.
These actions by the judiciary in cases that concern matters of political and national interest have a chilling effect on the role of the free press in a democratic society.
The actions also show an apparent willingness of some judges to abandon justifiable restraint in favor of fashionable antipathy towards the media.
These actions send the wrong message at the wrong time to the international community about fundamental American values.
We believe judges hearing these cases should reconsider their decisions in light of the long tradition in this country -- dating back to the founding of the Republic -- that recognizes the vital 'safety valve' provided by confidential disclosures and the key role of the press.
We believe the battle for public opinion should be played out in the nations' newspapers, magazines, television stations, cable programs, radio shows, and Web sites. And we believe the battle should not be played out and lost prematurely in the courtrooms of this country.
Journalists are invited to sign a statement that will be presented to federal officials and published in newspapers around the country. "
These actions by the judiciary in cases that concern matters of political and national interest have a chilling effect on the role of the free press in a democratic society.
The actions also show an apparent willingness of some judges to abandon justifiable restraint in favor of fashionable antipathy towards the media.
These actions send the wrong message at the wrong time to the international community about fundamental American values.
We believe judges hearing these cases should reconsider their decisions in light of the long tradition in this country -- dating back to the founding of the Republic -- that recognizes the vital 'safety valve' provided by confidential disclosures and the key role of the press.
We believe the battle for public opinion should be played out in the nations' newspapers, magazines, television stations, cable programs, radio shows, and Web sites. And we believe the battle should not be played out and lost prematurely in the courtrooms of this country.
Journalists are invited to sign a statement that will be presented to federal officials and published in newspapers around the country. "
posted by Robert at 11:30 PM
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