Journalists meet informally (07/11/99)

Joint Conferences of Ukrainian American Organizations

Journalists meet informally

by Michael Bociurkiw
Special to The Ukrainian Weekly

ARLINGTON, Va. - Quietly, on the sidelines of the Ukrainian mega-conference in metropolitan Washington, several journalists of Ukrainian descent gathered to discuss the formation of a professional Ukrainian journalists' association.

Though nothing formal was enacted, a consensus emerged to press ahead with plans for an inaugural meeting later this year, probably in the Northeast region of the United States.

Journalists of Ukrainian descent - or those who cover Ukraine or have an interest in Ukrainian issues - have had no effective means by which to communicate, network, seek peer support, or just meet on a regular basis.

The purpose of the fall gathering will be to discuss some of the goals and objectives of the proposed group. While geared to bona fide journalists - both full-time and freelance - some of the group's future activities might also appeal to academics, government officials, information officers and public relations professionals. Editors and writers from "new media" organizations might also find the activities of interest.

Some directions this group will consider taking include: professional development, for example, seminars and lectures on journalism-related issues and developments in Ukraine and Eastern Europe; information exchange via an interactive website and newsletter; networking, using knowledge, contacts and experience in such areas as story ideas; peer support and assistance; job search and career counseling; and social events.

During informal discussions in Washington, several journalists emphasized a desire to launch projects involving journalists and news organizations in Ukraine. There was a desire to create opportunities to assist colleagues in Ukraine, where journalists are often threatened or censored, as well as to help elevate the standards of journalism in Ukraine.

To date, a core group of well over a dozen professional journalists from print and broadcast media have expressed interest in the formation of this new group.

Interested individuals should contact: Michael Bociurkiw, PMB 162, 16625 Redmond Way, Suite M, Redmond, WA 98052; telephone, (425) 985-7894 or 739-0167; voice mail/fax, (416) 352-5068; e-mail, bociu@compuserve.com

| Home Page |