This Monday, Columbia Journalism School will host The Fight for Global Press Freedom, an event focused on the increasing threats to press freedom around the world. Over the weekend, we received word that this event may be targeted for disruption.
We are steadfast in our commitment to free speech—especially at a time when it is under threat from multiple directions, including, most insidiously, from the federal government. Indeed, the defense of this principle is the very point of the event. In our March 14, 2025 statement, the Journalism School called attention to how the arrest of Mahmoud Khalil reflects broader efforts to curtail freedom of speech and freedom of the press.
We fully support the right to protest. That right is part of the same ecosystem of free expression that protects a free press. But disruption that prevents dialogue undermines—not strengthens—those freedoms. Disruption of this event will aid only one group of people: those who are responsible for the ongoing attacks on these freedoms.
The event will proceed as scheduled, with enhanced security protocols in place.
We are also open to engaging in conversation at another time and place, should individuals or groups wish to express concerns or viewpoints related to the event. There is no need to prevent others from speaking if you wish to be heard.
The issues we’ll address are too urgent to delay. This is a crisis moment for journalism and democracy—and Columbia Journalism School is committed to helping chart a path forward.
