There can be no higher law in journalism than to tell the truth and to shame the devil. Walter Lippmann
As most of you know, I frequently attend conferences–both legal tech related and those related to technology in general, like CES. I do this because I am interested in the field and because I like to think what I write as a former practicing lawyer is valuable. The latter idea, of course, carries the responsibility to be candid and to “call em as I see em”. I have tried to do that since I started blogging some seven years ago.
Most of the time, the conference organizers provide media complimentary passes for me and others who write about the legal system. In most cases, these passes are only for admission to the conference, not travel expenses or any remuneration. That’s fair. In addition, none of the conference organizers have tried to dictate what I write or demand that I write a certain number of posts about their show.
At least, that was true until recently. As a prerequisite for a media pass, a legally related conference recently demanded my commitment that all my posts be “positive and upbeat” and “promote the conference and its significance”. In addition, before even setting foot at the conference, I would be required to write an article announcing the event. And a post promoting the event and its significance. While at the conference, I would be required to post daily about it and its daily highlights. Then, after the event, I would agree to do a comprehensive post about the conference and its key messages within one week.
Oh, and by the way, I was told that only those media who “best align with the program objectives” in the organizers’ view would be eligible