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Explainer
Before and After the Vote: A Journalism-Resource Database
The threats facing journalists — and their ability to produce trusted reporting for the public — are intensifying and will most likely continue to do so after Election Day.
Free Press has developed a database to help journalists keep communities informed and safe during the volatile weeks ahead. We are entering what is expected to be a period of uprisings, white-supremacist violence and intentional disinformation campaigns designed to undermine public trust in the election and deepen the debilitating crisis stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic. The database features more than 100 resources that address ways to:
- Cover white supremacy and white-supremacist violence
- Report on police, protests, uprisings and demonstrations
- Detect and combat misinformation and disinformation
- Produce coverage that upholds election integrity
- Protect journalists’ physical safety and secure digital communications
There are many devoted organizations and individuals producing guides, webinars, infographics and other educational materials dedicated to these topics. It is because of their incredible work that we saw the need for the database we’re launching today — so that reporters, media-makers and others doing journalism at both the national and local levels can access all of these valuable resources in one centralized location. The database is a mix of articles, guides, webinars, case studies and more, and you’ll be able to organize your searches by topic, medium, author and title.
You can access the database here.
Many non-journalists, especially those in BIPOC communities, have experienced — often to a dangerous degree — the threats outlined here. Black and Brown communities are targeted by police and white-supremacist violence, as well as disinformation campaigns meant to sow division and hate. They are more prone to voter suppression via both draconian laws and intimidation at the polls. Their physical safety during protests is not protected by a press badge or a newsroom legal team.
Journalism is at its best when it is in solidarity with those fighting for equity and justice. This database is designed to support journalists who are forging connections with activists. We hope this collection of resources will aid journalists in covering white supremacists without amplifying hate speech; provide tools and tips to ensure communities receive information grounded in facts, truth and credible sources; help communities and journalists remain safe during public demonstrations; and help ensure that those in power do not undermine the election.
This database is meant to be collaborative and is open to anyone who wants to contribute to it. If you have a resource you’d like to add or have any questions, get in touch!
