Reporting on Campus Speech Amid Conflict

For the last several months, college campuses have seen a wave of demonstrations and conflicts as a result of the Israel-Hamas war. Protests have erupted; students have been doxxed, and college leaders have stepped down. Amid the turmoil, lawmakers are cracking down on what “freedom of speech” means and for whom. What can education reporters do to best cover this complex and ongoing news story?

To help education reporters – including student journalists – better cover these challenging issues, the Education Writers Association will bring together three journalism professors on Feb. 28 at 1 p.m. Eastern to share their expertise and insights. 

Hear directly from educators on what the climate is really like on some college campuses, including those beyond the Ivy Leagues. They will discuss the First Amendment and challenges to academic freedom on campuses and offer advice on the best ways to thoughtfully connect, interview and elevate student voices. Attendees will hear tips on framing stories, sourcing with college students and educators, and writing about the conflict occurring on (and off) campuses. 

The panelists will also share what they are teaching their students about how to evaluate coverage. Additionally, they will detail the spaces they offer for critical conversation and the ways they are shepherding in a new generation of reporters.

Note: This webinar is only open to active journalism members.