Recently the National Press Photographers Association hosted a virtual town hall on Zoom discussing the various plans, protocols, and actions being taken in response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. The town hall was conducted by NPPA President Andrew Stanfill and boasted panelist from various backgrounds including directors, journalists, and health professionals.
A general theme discussed throughout the meeting was finding various ways to continue to work as journalist in a safe and efficient manner. One of the most interesting conversations that sprung from this theme was that of how editors and managers can aid in finding this balance.
Panelist Jill Geisler stressed how important it is for managers listen to reporters and photographers when they are voicing their concerns. She stated that making accommodations during this time for high risk reporters is key, and if a manger is unwilling to do so finding an outside physician to help enforce a need for accommodation.
Mickey Osterreicher NPPA’s general council spoke on the legal aspect of managers and HR departments responsibilities when listening and making judgment calls. He stressed that failure to take into account safety risk of employees when making legal decisions could result in drastic legal consequences.
Another notable point made was how this pandemic has affected staffers and freelance journalist differently. While journalist on staff can typically voice their concerns to an HR department, this could potentially be difficult for freelancers who often don’t have that option
Panel moderator Brett Akagi said a possible option for freelancing journalist could be to asking the company that they work for to compensate them for the necessities they need in order to stay safe doing their job.
As journalist it is our responsibility to search for truth and relay that truth to the public, I consider it one of the most selfless professions. However, it would be impossible to continue to do this job effectively without first taking the proper precautions and prioritizing safety amidst this global pandemic. My biggest take away from the town hall is the importance of communicating and voicing your concerns to your fellow journalist, use personal judgement and access the risk currently associated with the job.
#COVID-19 #NPPA #safety #pandemic
Cameron Sanders| Journalist 