Censorship Research Center

This isn’t just about the future of the Internet, this is the future of humanity, the story we’re all taking a part in creating. This is about making sure that the first open, global communication network in human history continues to be used by people, not against the people, not against the rights every person on this planet deserves. – Austin Heap

SAN FRANCISCO, CA – On March 25, 2010, Austin Heap, Executive Director of the Censorship Research Center (“CRC”), was selected as the MediaGuardian Innovator of the Year for 2010. The MediaGuardian Innovation Awards (also known as the “Megas”) recognize those at the pinnacle of achievement in media innovation. The finalists and winners represent media figures who the judges consider has had the greatest impact on innovation in the media in the past year.

“It is really an honor to be the recipient of this award. More importantly though, it shows that the spotlight is increasing on global efforts to assure that the internet is free from arbitrary and intrusive government censorship and filtering,” stated Mr. Heap. “We plan on using this award to bolster momentum for our efforts and hopefully increase awareness about CRC and the anti-filtering programs we have created.”

Steve Busfield, Head of Media and Technology for Guardian News & Media (GNM), and chair of the Megas judging panel, said: “This year’s winners prove that innovation in the media industry is buoyant, and that businesses are embracing new technologies to communicate with their audiences in increasingly creative and diverse ways. More than anything, the 2010 Megas reinforce just how vital it is that businesses embrace social media, and demonstrate the impact that websites such as Twitter can have on crucial global issues – as demonstrated by Austin Heap – as well as on individual brands.”

About the Censorship Research Center

The Censorship Research Center (“CRC”), is a San Francisco-based non-profit organization, was founded by Austin Heap and Daniel Colascione in 2009 to provide anti-censorship education, outreach, and technologies. The CRC’s first major project is Haystack, which provides access to information and communications to the Iranian people in the wake of recent restrictions imposed by the government of Iran.

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Media Contact Information:
Austin Heap
me@austinheap.com
http://blog.austinheap.com