Blog
ASNE, other organizations protest Big Ten credential requirements
- By: ASNE staff
- On: 09/04/2009 08:50:00
- In: Sports
The letter proposes a direct discussion between representatives of the media organizations and the Big Ten Conference in order to maintain a “relationship that has proven so mutually beneficial since 1896.”
Dear ASNE member:
ASNE has again joined with other national organizations to protest restrictive credentials issued to media wishing to cover college sports events. The latest protest letter
was sent to the Big Ten Conference earlier today by ASNE, the Associated Press Managing Editors, Associated Press Sports Editors, Online News Association, Radio-Television News Directors Association and Student Press Law Center.
Once again seeking revisions to credentials we deem both vague and overly restrictive, we specifically identify provisions restraining the use of photos and videos as areas of greatest concern. Some of these resemble provisions found in the Southeastern Conference media credentials protested by ASNE, APME, and APSE last month; others are among the list of recurring provisions identified in a member alert we circulated to assist you in recognizing problematic credentialing provisions and choosing how to respond.
The letter proposes a direct discussion between representatives of the media organizations and the Big Ten Conference in order to maintain a "relationship that has proven so mutually beneficial since 1896." This is intended to supplement, not substitute for, your own discussions with Big Ten officials or the media departments of individual universities. We reiterate that, while we will continue to provide you information and support whenever possible, it is up to every individual ASNE member to determine their own course of action when faced with undesirable credentials. You are always welcome to contact ASNE Legal Counsel Kevin M. Goldberg with questions about general credentialing issues. He can be reached at 703-812-0462 or goldberg@fhhlaw.com.
Thank you,
Andy Alexander
ASNE Freedom of Information Committee Co-Chair