In conjunction with the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ), Reporters Without Borders and Avaaz, we are partnering on a global moment of solidarity among journalists and the media, following the targeted killing of Al Jazeera journalist Anas al-Sharif and his colleagues in Gaza – and the more many journalists killed in this war, making Gaza the deadliest place in modern history for our profession.
You may have been aware of this black out action directly via your members’ media. We have been waiting for the full kit to be finalised by our partners, this is why this email comes late. Nevertheless, the initiative is good and there are a few things you can do.
What’s happening?
We want to facilitate a world-first: a coordinated global action where major media outlets and broadcasters call for an end to attacks on journalists and demand foreign press access to Gaza.
When?
This Monday 1st September
How outlets are joining:
- Print: blacked-out front page with a unified message / headline banners etc.
- Digital: homepage banner / takeover
- Broadcast: short blank screen or sound spot
- Flexible options: outlets adapt what works best for their platform
How you can get involved as a Union/Association/journalist:
- Assets: We attach digital artwork and messaging- so you can take part directly (on your social, Substack, etc.). See attached full description of activities for both Media or Journalists and their unions
- Lobby newsrooms internally: As a journalist, if your outlet hasn’t signed on yet, raising this inside your newsroom could make all the difference. Seeing peers join creates real momentum.
Who’s already in?
- Al Jazeera (Global)
- The Independent (UK)
- Strong interest from The Guardian and The Daily Mirror
- Scotsman (Scotland)
- The National (Scotland)
- The Journal (Ireland)
- Stuff (NZ)
- American Prospect (USA)
- WIRED (USA)
- Intercept (Brazil)
- La Base Latinoamérica (pan Latin America)
- Byline Times (UK)
- The Times of Malta (Malta)
- NPR (USA)
- Mediapart (France)
This is a chance to be part of the largest act of journalistic solidarity in years. Every additional country involved shows the depth of global outrage and makes it harder to ignore.
A press release is attached and will be embargoed until 1 am CET on 1st September.
Feel free to join!
Global Media Blackout — Gaza Press Freedom
Journalists Join Forces In a Global First for Press Freedom in Gaza
