Frequently Asked Questions
When is the National Conference for Media Reform?
The conference will begin the morning of Friday, April 8, 2011, and end the afternoon of Sunday, April 10, 2011.
Where will the conference take place?
The Seaport World Trade Center in Boston.
What will happen at the conference? Who will attend?
The conference will bring together thousands of people devoted to better media and a better democracy. Activists, media makers, educators, journalists, policymakers and people from across the country who want better media will gather in Boston. Our purpose is to strategize, network, share skills, swap information and inspire one another during three days of workshops, panels, caucuses, keynote speeches, meetings and parties – yes, parties!
Previous conferences were held in Madison, Wis., in November 2003; St. Louis in May 2005; Memphis, Tenn., in January 2007; and Minneapolis in June 2008.
How many people will attend the conference?
We expect more than 2,500 attendees.
Who organizes the conference?
Free Press organizes the conference. We are a national, nonpartisan organization working to reform the media and involve the public in media policymaking. Through research, education, organizing and advocacy, we promote diverse and independent media ownership, strong public media, quality journalism and universal access to communications. Learn more about Free Press.
Who will be speaking?
We’re working on an exciting lineup of speakers and expect to announce the lineup this coming winter. Speakers will include activists, policymakers, media makers, journalists, celebrities and representatives from allied organizations.
Can I suggest a session idea, presenter or topic I’d like to see covered at the conference?
Yes! Visit our call for suggestions web pages to submit your ideas online between now and Sept. 16, 2010. We’d love to hear from you.
How much will it cost to participate? Do I have to register?
Registration is required to participate, and there will be a registration fee. Registration will open this fall. Early bird rates and regular registration rate info will be available then. In the meantime, sign up for registration announcements and other conference updates.
Is there a hotel associated with the conference? Will you have discounted rooms?
Yes, there will be a block of rooms available to participants at a discounted rate. The hotel is located adjacent to the meeting venue and reservation information will be available in the fall.
Are there scholarships available?
Yes, there will be a limited number of scholarships available to offset the costs of registration, travel and lodging directly related to attendance at the conference. More information about the scholarship application process will be available in the fall.
Will you have promotional opportunities, such as exhibit tables and program advertisements?
Yes! Information will be available in the fall, but if you are interested in discussing promotional opportunities before then, please e-mail Mary Alice Crim at conference@freepress.net.
I’m press, and I want to cover the conference. Whom do I talk to?
We will have a system for applying for press credentials by the fall. For more information, please contact press@freepress.net.
How can I make sure I get updated information about the conference?
You can sign up for updates or visit our website this fall for more information.
Can I volunteer to work at the conference?
Yes, we will have a work exchange program and will be recruiting volunteers early next year.
I love this conference! This year, I am in a position to provide financial support to help those who otherwise might not be able to attend. How do I help?
We are currently raising money for a scholarship fund and would be grateful for contributions. The conference is not a money maker for us. In fact, only half of the costs of the conference are covered by registration fees. We welcome gifts of any amount.
I have a question that isn’t covered here; whom should I contact?
For more information, contact Mary Alice Crim, outreach manager, at conference@freepress.net
