United States: Reporter Alisa Reznick Arrested While Covering Pro-Palestine Demonstration
Reznick’s arrest amidst increased polarization on Israel-Gaza war follows string of disturbing press freedom violations in the U.S.
Location: United States, Tucson, Arizona
Date: December 4, 2023
Police arrest KJZZ radio reporter Alisa Reznick charging her with criminal trespass while reporting on a pro-Palestinian demonstration in Tucson, Arizona, on the morning of November 30. The Coalition For Women In Journalism and Women Press Freedom are concerned with recent cases of press freedom violations in the United States, including the arrest of Alisa Reznick and others, which point to a concerning trend that undermines the fundamental principles of a free and independent press. These incidents collectively highlight an alarming pattern where journalists face legal challenges, harassment, and threats, jeopardizing their ability to report freely and objectively. We strongly condemn the arrest of Alisa Reznick and urge for the immediate dismissal of all charges against her.
In footage captured by Unicorn Riot, journalist Alisa Reznick, a senior field correspondent for KJZZ's, can be heard clearly stating, "I'm a reporter," as she was being arrested while on the job covering a Pro-Palestinian demonstration in Tucson, Arizona. Reznick had a press credential visibly displayed around her neck, recording equipment in her hand, and a camera slung over her shoulder.
The deputy, holding her by the arm and wrist, responded, "And you're under arrest." When Reznick reiterated that she was attempting to return to her car and leave, he replied, "You had plenty of time to go to your car, and you haven't."
The deputy allowed a nearby reporter from Unicorn Riot to take custody of Reznick's equipment, stating that he did not want to damage it.
According to a public information officer from the Pima County Sheriff's Department, Reznick — an experienced radio reporter who specializes in covering border and immigration issues — was charged with criminal trespass, along with 25 demonstrators. The officer confirmed to the U.S. Press Freedom Tracker that Reznick was arrested in the same manner as the demonstrators. The arrest occurred because they were on private property, were asked to leave, and failed to comply with the request.
The Israel-Gaza War
The Israel-Palestine conflict intensified the already divisive political and ideological climate in the country, resulting in anti-war protests and an atmosphere of censorship that particularly targets voices advocating for the Palestinian cause. CFWIJ has been diligently monitoring press freedom in the United States, documenting numerous instances of violations against journalists and press freedom within the country.
LA Times Journalists Banned from Conflict Reporting: Journalists at the LA Times, including Suhauna Hussain, were removed from covering the Israel-Palestine conflict for three months after signing a letter criticizing Israel. The letter, signed by 34 staff members, called for unbiased coverage of Palestinians and condemned the killing of journalists. Hussain argues that this action aligns with the LA Times' ethics policy, which she believes doesn't explicitly forbid such actions.
Resignation at New York Times Magazine: Jazmine Hughes resigned from The New York Times Magazine after signing a letter opposing the Israel-Gaza war, which was deemed a violation of the newspaper's policies. The letter, also signed by Jamie Lauren Keiles and others, expressed solidarity with Palestinians and condemned Israel's actions in Gaza.
Threats to Jewish-American Sports Presenter: Emily Austin, an Israel activist and journalist, received death and rape threats amid escalating Middle East tensions, leading her to hire a bodyguard in New York City. She attributes these threats to anti-Israel sentiment and anti-Semitic views.
Anti-Semitic Graffiti Targeting US Journalist: Jewish journalist Bari Weiss, a supporter of Israel and anti-antisemitism campaigner, found anti-Semitic graffiti outside her New York office.
LA Times Editor Accused of Hamas Support: Sara Yasin, managing editor of the LA Times, faced accusations from CAMERA of being sympathetic to Hamas based on her social media posts. The Los Angeles Times defended Yasin, asserting their commitment to journalistic standards.
Press Freedom Decline in the United States
In recent years, the United States has witnessed a notable decline in press freedom. Journalists have been forced to work in an environment marked by hostility, experiencing harassment, intimidation, and even physical assault. Incidents that occurred in 2023 are increasing concerns about press freedoms and the protection of journalistic practices.
Sherry Digmon and Don Fletcher were arrested in Escambia County, Alabama, on charges of disclosing leaked information. These arrests followed the publication of a story by Fletcher on October 25, which investigated the alleged mishandling of COVID relief funds by the local Board of Education.
Police forces and sheriff's deputies conducted a raid on The Marion County Record's office, as well as the homes of the paper's owner, editor, and a city councilwoman. This unprecedented action was accompanied by a warrant issued by a magistrate judge, granting the police the power to seize the newspaper's files. During the search, computers, cell phones, and other materials were confiscated by the authorities.
LGBTQI journalists from the Asheville Blade, including Matilda Bliss and Veronica Coit, were convicted of trespassing while covering police actions, drawing attention to the potential targeting and unfair treatment of journalists, especially those from vulnerable communities. These instances collectively underscore the increasing legal pressures on journalists and the potential erosion of essential journalistic freedoms in the U.S.
In California, the 5th District Court of Appeal upheld a decision ordering reporter Ishani Desai to hand over interview notes, a move seen as a threat to journalists' rights under the First Amendment and California’s shield law. Similarly, CBS News correspondent Catherine Herridge was ordered to disclose confidential sources in a deposition, challenging the reporter's privilege protected by the First Amendment. Priscilla Grim, a blogger, faces RICO charges traditionally associated with organized crime, for her participation in protests in Atlanta, highlighting concerns about the criminalization of protest and free speech.
Unlawful arrest
The arrest of Alisa Reznick is a direct infringement on press freedom and the First Amendment rights, crucial for a democratic society. Journalists have a duty to report on events of public interest, and their presence at demonstrations should not be criminalized. This incident raises questions about the legal protections for journalists, particularly regarding the balance between private property rights and freedom of the press. The arrest represents a troubling trend towards the erosion of civil liberties, including the right to free speech and peaceful assembly.
The Coalition For Women In Journalism and Women Press Freedom firmly stands in unwavering solidarity with Alisa Reznick. We vehemently denounce her arrest, considering it a clear violation of press freedom. We demand the immediate dismissal of all charges against Reznick. Safeguarding the highest standards of the First Amendment is crucial to uphold democratic values in the United States.
The Coalition For Women In Journalism is a global organization of support for women journalists. The CFWIJ pioneered mentorship for mid-career women journalists across several countries around the world and is the first organization to focus on the status of free press for women journalists. We thoroughly document cases of any form of abuse against women in any part of the globe. Our system of individuals and organizations brings together the experience and mentorship necessary to help female career journalists navigate the industry. Our goal is to help develop a strong mechanism where women journalists can work safely and thrive.
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