IRE is turning 50 next year 🎂

As we reflect on IRE's upcoming 50th anniversary, it's hard to believe our global organization, which is nearly 5,000 members strong today, started out from a small group gathering in Reston, Virginia.

It was 1975. With the backdrop of the Watergate scandal and the Vietnam War, investigative reporting was exploding in the U.S., but many newsrooms did not have investigative experience.

So, a group of investigative reporters and editors, from different news outlets, gathered to form an organization that could embody their mission, and empower journalists to exchange story ideas, newsgathering techniques and best practices in the field.

Les Whitten, a Washington, D.C. columnist at the meeting, asserted that what most characterizes the investigative reporter is “ire,” or “a sense of outrage." It was then decided that the simplicity of the name "Investigative Reporters & Editors" and the acronym IRE would best fit such an association.

Since then, our members have transformed their ire into impactful investigative journalism, telling stories that have exposed injustice, inspired change and held power to account. Much has changed over the last 50 years, especially in the media landscape, but IRE remains steadfast in this core belief: Investigative journalism is essential to a free, democratic society.

This is our foundation. This is our story. Will you help us write the next chapter?

IRE relies on the generous support of donors to provide journalists worldwide with training, resources and a community of support. Your contribution ensures that we can continue our mission for the next generation of investigative reporters, please consider donating to our end-of-year giving campaign.

The future of our organization, and investigative journalism, depends on your support.

Other ways to get involved 💫