We consume the fruits of journalists’ labor every day, and in increasing amounts as media coverage and direct source availability increases. Despite this, the individuals behind this work are often lost to the public’s eye — their humanity falling second to their labor. Freedom of the Press Foundation works to empower and protect journalists and their integrity beyond the scope of their work. 

In this piece, I want to shift the gaze away from the effects of journalism and instead center the journalists themselves. Without these individuals’ tireless commitment to reporting, the common people would be forever kept in the dark by systems of power. I want to honor the people who make the public’s right to know possible through their diligence, persistence, and bravery.