The Society for Professional Journalists is an organization based on creating a more efficient, more diverse media. They pride themselves on striving for “excellence among journalists,” “a climate in which journalism can be practiced more freely” and “to inspire successive generations of talented individuals to become dedicated journalists.”
According the SPJ site, it was founded in 1909 at DePauw University in Greencastle, Ind., as a journalistic fraternity; however, in 1988 it became the official Society of Professional Journalists. It is open to all journalists in any field including: broadcast, print and online journalism, journalism educators, and students who are simply interested in joining the profession.
Under SPJ President, Hagit Limor, its Board of Directors consists of 24 people. These people’s positions range from the President to one of the 12 Region Directors. The board also has student representatives to keep all age groups involved. Also, many different races are involved in the board alone. Although most are white, other races are represented including the African Americans and Hispanic community.
SPJ also runs a Diversity Blog known as “Who’s News?” In the blog, articles range from sexual orientation in the media place to Native Americans waiting for their apology from the Republican National Committee. Each blog gives a clear picture of the story that is taking place. It contains quotes that represent each side of the story and create a fully objective environment for the reader or researcher.
The SPJ is a fully diverse organization and makes a good effort to make sure everybody is represented equally and respectfully in the newsroom.
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