Journalists meet in Albuquerque to address press freedom, funding cuts

The Indigenous Journalists Association annual conference opened Aug. 13 at the Isleta Resort & Casino, hosted by the Pueblo of Isleta. The three-day event will bring together several hundred Native reporters, editors, producers and influencers to discuss pressing issues in the industry. Buffalo’s Fire is on site and will send dispatches throughout the conference.

A major difference since last year’s gathering is the recent rescission approved by Congress at President Trump’s request, which cut $1.1 billion from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. Critics say the loss will hurt small radio and TV stations in rural areas, particularly in Indian Country. Other topics on the agenda include environmental justice, coverage of missing and murdered Indigenous people, the Land Back movement and more. As of 7:18 a.m., 375 people were registered, according to IJA president Christine Trudeau. This year’s theme is “Sovereignty Equals Free Press.”