EVENT: SPJ/LA Press Freedom Summit

Not since Congress enacted the Freedom of Information Act 60 years ago have our First Amendment rights been more imperiled.

On Saturday, March 14, 2026, the Society of Professional Journalists Greater Los Angeles Chapter is convening Press Freedom: Coming Together, Fighting Back—a day-long summit at the ASU Center in the historic Herald Examiner building in downtown Los Angeles.

We’ve lined up a powerful roster of speakers to guide us in mapping new ways to collaborate to accelerate our efforts. We will learn from what’s being done and plan for what’s next.

To support innovation in the field and broad participation, there is no registration fee, and lunch is provided.

Participation is by application only and intentionally limited to foster exchange, learning and collaboration. Those accepted will be responsible for the cost of transportation/parking.

Over the course of the day, we will:

• Ground ourselves in our legal rights and the current threats to press freedom

• Learn from successful FOI advocacy efforts in other states

• Develop concrete strategies for protecting journalists and holding power accountable

• Build a network of mutual support across newsrooms, legal experts, and advocacy organizations

• Create a Press Freedom Playbook with actionable next steps for journalists nationwide

You'll hear from First Amendment attorneys, SPJ National leadership, and journalists who have successfully fought back against government efforts to intimidate us and deny the public’s right to know. More importantly, you'll work alongside colleagues to develop strategies we can implement together.

Whether you're a working journalist, a journalism educator, a student, or an ally in the legal or advocacy community, this convening is a vital part of the work we need to be doing together to forge a path into the future.

EVENT DETAILS

Summit Date: March 14, 2026

9:30 AM - 4:00 PM (registration and coffee from 9:00 AM)

Location: ASU Historic Herald Examiner Building, Downtown Los Angeles

Registration fee and lunch are included; attendees cover the cost of transportation/parking

Attendance to the Summit is limited, and only those whose applications are accepted will be admitted to the event. Applicants will be notified of the status of their application shortly after applications close.