The Bay Agenda: The Future of Press Freedom

How will journalism fare under the new Trump administration? Join KALW for an in-depth panel discussion and mixer co-sponsored by the Society of Professional Journalists Northern California (SPJNC) and the San Francisco Press Club.

Join experts from the Electronic Frontier Foundation, First Amendment Coalition, SPJNC’s Freedom of Information Committee, along with leading local journalists to explore issues, including:

• How will the enduring impact of the President-elect’s rhetoric, such as the "enemy of the people" and “fake news” narratives impact public trust and safety?
• How should journalists prepare to meet escalating legal threats including defamation suits, such as Trump’s recent settlement with ABC News.
• How will journalists address the rise of digital harassment, government surveillance, and hacking targeting the press, as well as challenges in securing public records and maintaining transparency.
• What is being done to address the polarization of news consumption?

Learn about how journalists will need to navigate these challenges, including by bolstering legal protections, fostering trust with audiences, and developing strategies to safeguard their work and well-being.

Immediately following the panel, we’ll host a mixer for journalists and attendees.

Panelists Include:

David Greene, Civil Liberties Director & Senior Staff Attorney Electronic Frontier Foundation

David Greene has significant experience litigating First Amendment issues in state and federal trial and appellate courts. He currently serves on the steering committee of the Free Expression Network, the governing committee of the American Bar Association Forum on Communications Law, and on advisory boards for several arts and free speech organizations across the country. David is also an adjunct professor at the University of San Francisco School of Law, where he teaches classes in First Amendment and media law and was formerly an instructor in the journalism department at San Francisco State University.

More Panelists to come

More panelists to come

Moderated by Ben Trefny, KALW Executive Producer

Ben Trefny has been part of the KALW family since 2004. His work is currently focused on creating original live events, programming, and building partnerships with like-minded organizations. He oversees KALW's Live Events Studio at 220 Montgomery Street in downtown San Francisco where he organizes town hall conversations, film screenings, literature readings, concerts, and fundraisers. He also curates the 111 Minna Street stage for Downtown First Thursdays.

There is a $10 - $20 sliding scale suggested donation for this event. Nobody will be turned away for lack of funds. We're hosting this gathering to help inform the electorate.

Please become a KALW member today and receive your first drink on us at all 220 Montgomery events.

📍 220 Montgomery St., San Francisco, 2 blocks from BART/MUNI
🚪 Doors open at 6:00
🗣️ Program begins at 7:00
🍕 Free snacks
🍷 Refreshments for donation (and KALW members get their first one on the house)
🆓 The event is free with an RSVP — and you are welcome to donate what you want

Please note:

• The event space is just to the left of the main entrance to the Mills Building at 220 Montgomery Street
• We recommend taking BART/MUNI, exiting at Montgomery, and walking two blocks north
• Ride-shares can drop off and pick up directly in front of the venue
• If you drive, there are several garages within two blocks of the event location

Host or Publisher KALW Public Media