Safety gear for reporters and photographers

Building Safer Journalists: Inside Our Domestic Conflict Training

March 26, 2026 CHC-Foundation 0

On March 23-24, the Chicago Headline Club and Foundation welcomed nearly two dozen journalists and trainers to DePaul’s downtown communications center for an intensive two-day Hostile Environment and First Aid Training (HEFAT) designed to prepare reporters and photographers to safely cover protests, civil unrest, and other high-risk assignments. This training—part […]

These are the finalists for the 49th Annual Peter Lisagor Awards

March 27, 2026 Marissa Nelson 0

The finalists for the 49th Annual Peter Lisagor Awards represent some of the best journalism produced in Illinois and northwest Indiana from across print, digital and broadcast media. Our thanks to everyone who submitted nominations for consideration. Entries were judged by an out-of-state SPJ chapter. Award recipients will be announced […]

2026 FOIA Fest Online Resource

February 13, 2026 Marissa Nelson 0

As the journalism industry rapidly evolves and as threats to press freedom escalate, accountability journalism continues to be critical to a healthy democracy.   FOIA Fest equips  journalists with the practical skills, tips and strategy necessary to successfully leverage the Freedom of Information Act and other investigative tactics in their reporting. […]

Essential Equipment Fund - press image

$25K Field Grant Awarded to Expand Journalist Safety Training

January 29, 2026 CHC-Foundation 0

The Chicago Headline Club Foundation (CHCF) is pleased to announce a $25,000 Field Foundation grant to expand safety resources and training for journalists navigating today’s increasingly unpredictable reporting environment. The initiative is designed to meet the urgent needs of reporters, photographers and freelancers covering protests, domestic conflict and other high-risk […]

2026 FOIA Fest Boot Camp Application – Chicago Headline Club and the Investigative Project on Race and Equity

January 25, 2026 Marissa Nelson 0

The Chicago Headline Club and the Investigative Project on Race and Equity are accepting applications for the 2026 FOIA Fest Boot Camp, a four-month training and mentorship program for Chicago-based reporters. We seek diverse, talented early career applicants committed to equity-focused journalism who want guidance in accountability reporting.  Applicants must […]

FOIA Fest returns on Saturday, March 21, tickets on sale now

January 9, 2026 Marissa Nelson 0

On Saturday, March 21, FOIA Fest will equip journalists with the practical skills, tips and strategy necessary to successfully leverage the Freedom of Information Act and other investigative tactics in their reporting.The annual public records conference will include pressing conversations about the legal challenges and limitations to information that newsrooms […]