We’re the Society of Professional Journalists Rio Grande Chapter — which means if you’re a journalist working in New Mexico or the El Paso region of Texas, we’re here for you.
We are dedicated to being a force for responsible journalism and empowering journalists to do their jobs well. We welcome all who recognize the value of membership in an organization that holds the profession to strict ethical guidelines while standing up for First Amendment rights.
We’re part of the nation’s most broad-based journalism organization, which is dedicated to encouraging the free practice of journalism and stimulating high standards of ethical behavior. Founded in 1909 as Sigma Delta Chi, SPJ promotes the free flow of information that is vital to a well-informed citizenry through the daily work of its nearly 10,000 members, works to inspire and educate current and future journalists through professional development, and protects First Amendment guarantees of freedom of speech and press through its advocacy efforts.
Mission statement
The Rio Grande Chapter shares the objectives of the National Society of Professional Journalists, which describes its mission in terms of dedication to the perpetuation of a free press as the cornerstone of our nation and our liberty. It continues:
To ensure that the concept of self-government outlined by the U.S. Constitution remains a reality into future centuries, the American people must be well informed in order to make decisions regarding their lives, and their local and national communities.
It is the role of journalists to provide this information in an accurate, comprehensive, timely and understandable manner.
It is the mission of the Society of Professional Journalists:
• To promote this flow of information.
• To maintain constant vigilance in protection of the First Amendment guarantees of freedom of speech and of the press.
• To stimulate high standards and ethical behavior in the practice of journalism.
• To foster excellence among journalists.
• To inspire successive generations of talented individuals to become dedicated journalists.
• To encourage diversity in journalism.
• To be the pre-eminent, broad-based membership organization for journalists.
• To encourage a climate in which journalism can be practiced freely.
Programs and benefits
The Rio Grande Chapter aims to fulfill this mission in multiple ways, including:
Freedom of information — SPJ is a leading provider of freedom of information resources and training for journalists and the public. The Rio Grande Chapter has established a Sunshine Committee charged with encouraging transparency by governmental and other public institutions.
Career help — The Rio Grande Chapter has made a priority of serving as a source of job opportunities. We regularly post regional job openings on our website.
Training and networking— The Rio Grande Chapter aims to foster a regional community of professional journalists. We host trainings and gatherings throughout the year to help journalists learn new skills, network and build camaraderie.
Public statements: We regularly release public statements on government transparency and journalism-related issues to defend the First Amendment and promote responsible journalism.
Professional responsibility — SPJ’s Code of Ethics is embraced by thousands of writers, editors and other news professionals. Developed over many years, the Code is a standard by which professional journalism is measured. The national SPJ Code of Ethics is available through this link.
Other benefits — Membership in SPJ carries discounted fees for conferences and awards and discounted rates with national companies offering health insurance, travel services, office products and career development.
Membership — Anyone who joins the national organization and lives in New Mexico or the El Paso region of Texas is automatically a member of the Rio Chapter. There’s a fee to join the national organization — but, unlike in some other regions, there’s no additional fee to join the Rio Grande Chapter. So, join us!