Kidnapped, Threatened, Under Fire: Three journalists confront the realities of reporting in conflict zones
TORONTO,(RPRN) 04/14/09- The Canadian Journalism Foundation will host a panel discussion on April 21 in Toronto featuring Mellissa Fung, Lisa LaFlamme and Derek Stoffel to discuss their experiences reporting in
conflict zones.
Event Description:
Canadians were both shocked and relieved last November when they learned
that CBC reporter Mellissa Fung was home safe after suffering through a
month-long hostage ordeal in Afghanistan. The case raised national
awareness of the dangers of reporting in conflict zones, as well as
questions surrounding the protection of our own journalists. What are the
dangers, beyond the obvious safety threats? How are journalists and their
employers prepared to face them? Should we set limitations on coverage
for safety’s sake?
We get the reaction from three reporters who’ve been there and back:
Mellissa Fung is joined by CTV national correspondent Lisa LaFlamme and
CBC reporter Derek Stoffel to discuss their experiences. The panel will
be moderated by Sally Armstrong, author of two books about Afghanistan:
Veiled Threat and Bitter Roots Tender Shoots.
WHO:
– Mellissa Fung, CBC News, The National;
– Lisa LaFlamme, CTV National News;
– Derek Stoffel, CBC National Radio News;
– Sally Armstrong, Human rights activist, journalist and award-
winning writer (moderator).
WHERE: George Ignatieff Theatre, University of Toronto,
15 Devonshire Place
WHEN: Tuesday, April 21, 2009. Presentation 6:30-8:00 p.m.,
Reception 8:00-9:00
There is no cost to attend the event but guests must register at:
http://cjfconflictzones.eventbrite.com
For further information: Heather McCall, Program Manager, CJF, (416)
955-0630 or hmccall@cjf-fjc.ca