Freedom of Information
Explore SPJ FOI
– FOI A-Z Guides for: Students | Pros
– Meet the Committee
– Related News and Articles
– FOI A-Z Guides for: Students | Pros
– Meet the Committee
– Related News and Articles
SPJ's Freedom of Information Committee is the watchdog of press freedoms across the nation. It relies upon a network of volunteers in each state organized under Project Sunshine. These SPJ members are on the front lines for assaults to the First Amendment and when lawmakers attempt to restrict the public's access to documents and the government's business. The committee often is called upon to intervene in instances where the media is restricted.
View Sunshine Week project research documents , a Sample FOIA Request, and more at the Sunshine Week 2022 project page The Gagging of America.
Journalist's Toolbox: Public Records
More FOI and public records coverage at Journalist's Toolbox:
– First Amendment
– FOIA and Finding Data
– Crime Databases | Stats
– Form 990s | Charities
– Government Data
FOI step-by-step guides
If you're unfamiliar with FOIA laws or just need some guidance, we can help.
– FOI for students
– FOI for pros
Additional guides:
– Reporter’s Guide to FERPA: Family Education Rights and Privacy Act
– Open Doors: Accessing Government Records
– Campus Access Center
SPJ’s Campus Access Center
The Society of Professional Journalists is here to support student journalists nationwide as they begin to mold their careers. Whether it’s a campus chapter, student media outlet or individual, SPJ is here to offer advice, training and up-to-date information on important freedom of information decisions.
Follow this link for resources that can help you and your chapter regarding freedom of information news and education.
Introducing iFOIA
The Sigma Delta Chi Foundation provided funding to the Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press to help update its Open Government Guide. That updated guide led to the development of the RCFP’s new project, iFOIA.
