About The PAPARAZZI Reform Initiative

          -    mission  statement
          -    in  memory
          -    links
          -    press
          -    LAX-Paparazzi.org

The PAPARAZZI Reform Initiative was founded in February, 2009, by a former Hollywood bodyguard to educate the public on the paparazzi industry - how the individuals in it behave, how it has gotten out of control and how no one would wish this kind of harassment on another human being.  Our purpose is to effect reform that restores order to our streets and privacy for those in the spotlight.

The intent for this website is to act as a clearinghouse for information regarding the paparazzi:  news stories, video, commentary, comments from readers and an overview of the industry and various solutions we recommend to anyone wishing to make a positive change. 

Ultimately, this Initiative* is part of a much larger issue confronting all Americans in this ever increasing digital age:  personal privacy.  Though this site specifically details the situation facing those with fame and the paparazzi that pursue them, the issues are the same for everyone.  Does a coworker have the right to put your photo on the internet without your permission?  Could they sell your photo to a marketing company in Russia to use in an advertisement without your knowledge?  New digital technology emerges constantly and the laws in this area are undefined.  In the end, we believe all individuals, famous or not, have the right to personal privacy while engaged in non-newsworthy events. 

Causing the needed change to this industry and in the broader sphere of personal privacy rights requires like-minded people and groups banning together for a common beneficial purpose. It requires all media to agree to a new CODE OF ETHICS regarding the use of paparazzi-generated photographs. It requires brilliant lawyers finding effective ways to enforce reform. Ultimately, it requires everyone getting educated on the problem and TAKING ACTION.  We at The PAPARAZZI Reform Initiative invite your ideas and help to make reform a reality.

* The definition of "initiative" used here: "a new action or movement, often intended to solve a problem." - Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary