Miles of Smiles hosted a boba fundraiser to raise money and awareness for the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) on April 17. Along with boba drinks, students received flyers containing information  on CPJ’s mission and the goals of Miles of Smiles.

Club leader and News Reporter Holden Kim ’27 said he hopes the fundraiser will empower students to support press freedom.

“I hope people leave the event with a better understanding of threats journalists and the free press are currently facing, along with a stronger desire to take action,” Kim said. “Even something as simple as purchasing boba can translate into meaningful support for journalists in the field whose lives and livelihoods are on the line.”

Miles of Smiles is a community service club with the purpose of defending the freedom of the press and expression of ideas. It aims to raise awareness about challenges faced by journalists and the importance of a free and independent press.

The CPJ is an independent, nonpartisan nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting press freedom worldwide and protecting journalists’ rights to report news safely and without fear of reprisal. According to its website, in 2023, CPJ helped secure the release of over 200 journalists imprisoned for doing their jobs. The group’s efforts include condemning press freedom violations, meeting with heads of state and spearheading diplomatic efforts. The fundraiser sold out of boba drinks, and Miles of Smiles donated all revenue to CPJ.

Club member Madison Shen ’28 said she enjoys bringing recognition to the dangers journalists face and the lack of press freedom that exists today.

“Without access to accurate information, the news can be heavily influenced by the government’s perspective, with readers being unable to question or hold those in power accountable,” Shen said. “I like being a part of Miles of Smiles because we can help spread awareness to the rest of the school about this current lack of freedom of the press, as many journalists are being imprisoned or killed for trying to tell the truth.”

Kim said he values the press’s role in spreading accurate information and feels a personal commitment to the protection of journalists.

“As the fourth estate, the media plays a vital role in informing the public and holding those in power accountable, so it’s deeply concerning to witness the erosion of press freedom worldwide, even
at the hands of governments that are meant to uphold democratic values,” Kim said. “As a student journalist, I feel a personal responsibility to raise awareness about these challenges.”