Independent journalism is becoming the only reliable resource for true and factual news.
Most main stream media journalism is being intimidated out of existence by the current administration. Corporate media has a major advantage in that they have buckets of money and large legal teams to stand behind their journalism when they choose to do so when challanged.
Small outlets, open source independent journalists lack this legal backing and, as a result, find themselves at greater risk of being targeted by malicious legal attacks in an attempt to silence their critical reporting.
They are all begging donations or running Gofundme campaigns as a hedge not just against their operating costs but in the event they find themselves in the position of needing to defend against retribution in the form of legal actions brought by nefarious government forces.
I propose a non-profit defense fund/organization that independent journalists can join to afford themselves of legal backing similar to that enjoyed by corporate media. While there are legal resources they appear to be “after the fact” legal help rather than an ongoing protection for free lance journalism.
It’s elements should include at least:
• Means to solicit donations for legal defense of 1st Amendment rights • Pool of pro-bono attorneys. At least one of which would provide management. • Pro-bono accountant to manage organization’s finances and tax liabilities • Other attorneys willing to offer the organization deep discount legal representation • A portal to allow member journalists to discuss a potential legal issue with a professional. Advice on sources, defamation etc.
Some obvious issues to address are going to be:
• Would this constitute “insurance” under various laws? 501(c)(8)? • Who qualifies to join and what vetting/documents process should be involved to join? • What would trigger support for a member? • Would membership qualify as a “retainer” or representation a member can claim? • What, if any, dues should members be asked to pay? Should there be levels based on subscribers of readership numbers as their exposure to risk increases?
I am proposing this to a number of potential sponsors via Snail Mail and email.
Your feedback is appreciated.