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Mother of slain journalist fights for press safety, freedom

Posted at 12:21 PM, Aug 28, 2016
and last updated 2016-08-28 15:21:49-04

The mother of a photojournalist killed by the Islamic State is fighting for press freedoms and services for families of hostages two years after her son's death.

Diane Foley, of Rochester, New Hampshire, tells thePortsmouth Herald she thinks many Americans take press freedoms for granted. Foley created the James W. Foley Legacy Foundation to advocate for the release of American hostages and help keep journalists reporting in conflict zones safe.

James Foley was killed on Aug. 19, 2014, after being held hostage by the Islamic State for several months.

Diane Foley says she wants people to realize the vulnerability of journalists who shoot the photos that bring the world's conflicts to light. The foundation collaborates with major news organizations on reporter safety and training.