Learn the Secrets of the Freedom of Information Act

Learn the secrets of the Freedom of Information Act, the invaluable reporting tool that too many journalists ignore. Through FOIA requests, appeals and even litigation, reporters and other professionals can extract invaluable documents from the federal government and uncover great stories that have never been told. Join three FOIA experts in a lively, practical-oriented discussion about filing effective requests, negotiating with government gatekeepers, finding likely sources and turning the law into your sword.

Nate Jones is FOIA Coordinator with the National Security Archive, an award-winning research institute and investigative journalism center based at The George Washington University. The Archive has extensive experience with FOIA requests, particularly in the areas of diplomacy and military affairs. Anne Weismann is Chief Counsel with CREW, the Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington. CREW frequently goes to court to fight for FOIA requests, and Weismann formerly served as a Justice Department official overseeing FOIA litigation. Cori Zarek is an attorney-advisor with the Office of Government Information Services. The Office serves as an ombudsman, helping review FOIA policies and resolve disputes between information-requestors and government agencies. The panel will be moderated by Michael Doyle, a reporter with McClatchy newspapers.

The program will be held in the Bloomberg Room of the National Press Club, from 9:30 a.m - 11 a.m. on Tuesday, June 12.

The class is free for members, $10 for non-members, but space is limited so you must reserve. To RSVP, please e-mail [email protected] or call 202-662-7523. Sponsored by the NPC Journalism Institute’s Professional Development Committee.