As a working journalist, do you believe in the core values of protecting freedom of the press, access to public meetings and records, promoting newsroom diversity and retaining/regaining the general public’s trust?

If these things are important to you and you want to do something to change the state of the media, start off by joining the Society of Professional Journalists.

SPJ consists of close to 10,000 professional reporters, editors, broadcasters and freelancers nationwide and has been fighting for journalists’ right to do their jobs since 1909. For just $72 a year and minimal local dues, you too can actively participate in changing things for the better and ensuring journalists maintain the right to seek the truth and report it in a fair and balanced manner.

What will SPJ do for me locally?

• Connections: SPJ holds ongoing mixers for local journalists to socialize and develop connections.
• Career development: Local programs and workshops will focus on issues and dilemnas journalists face on a daily basis and will equip journalists with the tools to do their jobs more effectively.
• Regional convention: Each year our Region 11 holds a convention in a different location where journalists connect with others and learn about issues specific to the region.
• Support: The Society not only offers national support, but local support from a group of journalists that have your back.
• Public relationships: The local chapter offers opportunities to work with the public on learning to understand each other.

What will SPJ do for me nationally?

• Nationwide and worldwide connections: The Society offers you the chance to connect with more than 10,000 journalists in various fields from across the nation to other countries
• National convention: Each year the Society takes the national convention to a new location where journalists connect with each other, learn and discuss issues facing journalists in all fields across the country
• Freedom of information: The Society fights locally and nationally for freedom of information and First Amendment rights. SPJ’s Legal Defense Fund is available for journalists to help them finance court battles to keep First Amendment rights secure
• Responsible journalism: SPJ adopted its first Code of Ethics in 1926. Todays code instructs journalists to seek truth and report it, minimize harm, act indepently and be accountable. Ethics discussions, an awards program and a special issue of Quill are devoted to assisting members facing ethical dilemnas.
• Quill magazine: A magazine for the professional journalist. Published nine times a year, the magazine offers concrete techniques and industry analysis that help journalists become more effective in their profession and more informed about the journalism community.
• SPJ online: The Society’s Web site (www.spj.org) brings you the latest in media news, including SPJ PressNotes, a daily summary of news in the media industry online and delivered to your e-mail address. Use the site to browse issues of Quill magazine, update your membership information, communicate with journalists around the country and learn about what the national Society is doing.

Sign me up!

CLICK HERE to download a membership registration form.