Resources for Minnesota Journalists covering Operation Metro Surge

The Minnesota Society of Professional Journalists serves reporters, photographers and editors covering the federal Operation Metro Surge in Minnesota. Journalists have not only the right, but the responsibility to observe and report these events in the public interest.

Several credible instances of federal law enforcement violence against journalists have been reported, including the use of less-lethal munitions, pepper spray and tear gas. While the details of each incident vary, they share the common theme of failure to distinguish journalists from protesters or other members of the public engaged with officers.  

To support journalists covering law enforcement activity in the state, MNSPJ offers press credentials and other resources to eligible journalists. Below are links to some resources.

REQUEST A MEDIA PASS

Are you an independent journalist with a need for a press pass? MNSPJ provides press credentials for its members. Email minnesota.spj@gmail.com for details.

FILE A HARM REPORT

If you have been harmed while reporting, whether targeted or not, please let us know. We are tracking these incidents internally and can help connect you with resources. Email minnesota.spj@gmail.com. 

LEGAL SUPPORT

  • Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press’ Legal Hotline Guide: Ask legal questions by filling out this form or calling the emergency legal hotline at 1-800-336-4243.
  • ProJourn’s pro bono legal assistance for media professionals includes guidance on editorial risks, public records access, and newsroom operations
  • Committee to Protect Journalists‘ emergency hotline: Email emergencies@cpj.org for help navigating an urgent safety situation. The organization also provides short-term, emergency support to working journalists and media workers following an incident related to their journalistic work. 

EMERGENCY FUNDING

  • Apply to the United States Journalism Emergency Fund: If you are a U.S.-based journalist of any gender targeted as a result of your reporting at events related to the highly charged political unrest and polarization in the U.S., including elections, civil movements and other challenging environments, you may request support for immediate needs related to your professional work, such as destroyed or stolen equipment and protective gear. Small grants for medical and psychological care for incidents directly related to threats and crises caused by one’s work as a journalist are also available.

MENTAL HEALTH

  • The Global Center for Journalism and Trauma (formerly the Dart Center) offers training, best practices and tools for building and maintaining resilience in challenging times, for news leaders and staffers
  • The Journalist Trauma Support Network: Find a Minnesota-licensed trauma psychotherapist who’s been trained to treat journalists with occupation-related stress and trauma

SAFETY GUIDES

From the Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press:

From Committee to Protect Journalists and PEN America:

From the International Women’s Media Foundation:

  • One-on-one safety consultations: IWMF safety experts are available to consult on physical and digital safety issues. It’s not a rapid response line, but the IWMF team is paying attention to what’s happening on the ground in Minnesota, and is ready to respond.

From the Minnesota Journalism Center: