By Dyana Daniels Adeshina Emmanuel understands that submitting a FOIA request isn’t just about getting data – it’s about the people behind those numbers. “The only reason that we want to FOIA … is because of people – because there’s some impact or harm that we’re trying to understand,” said […]
By Camilla Forte A panel of legal experts, journalists and community organizers shed light on key aspects of Illinois’ Freedom of Information Act during the first day of the Headline Club’s annual FOIAFest, sharing tips for filing requests, following up and organizing data that is helpful to community organizers. Panelists […]
By Isaiah Colbert Using Freedom of Information Act laws can help journalists tell the story of policing and prisons – and ensure people’s lived experiences are more accurately reflected, said reporters speaking Saturday at the Chicago Headline Club’s FOIAFest 2021. While databases like those created as part of the Invisible […]
By Camilla Forte Local Chicago reporters outlined Sunday how FOIA was used to break a key story surrounding the Hilco demolition in May 2020, exposing that city officials had neglected the many environmental concerns raised by residents and other stakeholders before the stacks were leveled. Chicago Sun-Times reporter Brett Chase, […]
By Mari Devereaux In journalism, finding even the smallest bit of information can lead to an investigative project that requires hundreds of files and dozens of Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests. That was the consensus Saturday as several investigative reporters discussed how to use and keep track of FOIA […]
Journalists are mission-driven to speak truth to power and report the news even under the most harrowing circumstances.We’re not accustomed to becoming part of the narrative. Last week’s insurrection at the U.S. Capitol by a rampaging, violent mob aimed not only to terrorize and instill fear in the hearts of […]
CHC seeking qualified journalist to help with signature conference The Chicago Headline Club is looking for a freelance journalist to help prepare for and manage the 2021 FOIAFest, which will be held Feb. 19-21. The job offers a $3,500 stipend for up to 180 hours of work between Jan. 25 […]
The #WeAreTheHeadlineClub campaign—designed by photographer E. Jason Wambsgans—is an effort to give our brand and our members more exposure. You’ll see these photos and questions across social media over the next few months, anchored to pages like these. Our spotlight this month is on: Robert K. Elder, the Chief Digital […]
The McCormick Foundation is administering $10,000 grants “to support media organizations responding to local information needs related to COVID-19 and covering the public health emergency’s impact on Chicagoland communities.” Application Deadline: Wednesday, April 15, 2020 Apply here. Criteria The fund will prioritize support for organizations meeting the following criteria: Small and Medium […]
Welcome to FOIAIllinois.org’s blog page! We want you to use this space to stay updated on newsworthy Freedom of Information Act happenings, share your gripes and accomplishments in acquiring data using Illinois’ FOIA policies in general and with specific agencies, brainstorm solutions to problems plaguing individuals or the larger community, […]
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