New Media Rights Hosts Conversation on Border Journalism and Source Protection
California Western School of Law's New Media Rights clinic recently hosted A Conversation on Border Journalism and Source Protection, bringing together an audience of journalists, legal professionals, students, and community members for a discussion on the challenges of reporting in high-risk environments. The August 17 event was co-hosted by New Media Rights, the Freedom of the Press Foundation (FPF), and The Centre for Investigative Journalism's (CIJ) Source Protection Programme.
The conversation featured investigative journalist James Stout, known for his work with iHeartRadio, and Harlo Holmes, chief security programs officer at FPF, with introductions by Abigail LP, program manager of digital security at FPF. Their discussion explored the practical, ethical, and legal considerations involved in covering stories along the U.S.-Mexico border and other global border locations. Drawing on his experiences reporting on migration, protests, and international conflicts, Stout discussed the importance of building trust with sources, managing risks in the field, and protecting sensitive information.
“It was great to see so many San Diego journalists come to campus for this event,” New Media Rights Executive Director Art Neill said. “Through the New Media Rights law clinic, we regularly provide legal services to journalists and documentarians who tell the stories of our border region and the world. I'm grateful California Western could provide a forum for important conversations about journalism, freedom of speech, and source protection.”
New Media Rights Executive Director Art Neill
During a question-and-answer session, attendees asked about the relationship between journalism and the legal profession. Stout highlighted the role attorneys can play in helping journalists access public records and navigate legal challenges related to transparency and accountability. The discussion also touched on source protection, press freedoms, and the evolving legal landscape surrounding journalism.
From left: New Media Rights Executive Director Art Neill, Freedom of the Press Foundation
Program Manager Abigail LP, investigative journalist James Stout, Freedom of the Press
Foundation Chief Security Programs Officer Harlo Holmes, and California Western School
of Law Dean and President Miriam Baer.
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