NABJ CONDEMNS THREATS TO PRESS FREEDOM, STANDS FIRMLY WITH JOURNALISTS TARGETED FOR DOING THEIR JOBS

The National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) unequivocally condemns the actions and rhetoric of Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon and the Department of Justice (DOJ) in response to press coverage of an anti-ICE protest in Minneapolis. While multiple journalists were lawfully present documenting this matter of public interest and concern, Dhillon singled out veteran journalist Don Lemon and announced an investigation and threat of legal action against him. NABJ stands in full solidarity with Don Lemon and all frontline members of the press who were simply doing their jobs and upholding their duty to inform the public.

“NABJ’s support for Don Lemon is grounded not only in solidarity with our colleague, but in our unwavering defense of press freedom and journalistic integrity,” says NABJ President Errin Haines. “Any public suggestion that journalists may face criminal consequences for documenting protests sends a dangerous message that threatens the independence of the press and weakens the democratic principles journalism exists to protect.”

Journalists have a fundamental responsibility to observe, document and inform the public of events as they unfold, and they do not require permission to do so. Attempts by government officials to single out and scrutinize members of the press for legal newsgathering and fair reporting raise serious concerns about the treatment of journalists and the conditions under which they are expected to work. 

In Minneapolis, Don Lemon was present in a professional capacity to report, not to protest, and he was not alone. Journalists from multiple outlets were also on the ground performing their duty to provide real-time, accurate and contextual reporting. However, efforts to isolate and criminalize Lemon’s work rings the alarm of a broader and deeply troubling threat to press freedom; especially, at a time when transparency and accountability are most essential.

“For Black journalists, these moments carry added weight. Journalists of color are often on the front lines covering immigration enforcement, racial justice, policing, and civil unrest,” continues Haines. “Any erosion of press protections in these contexts disproportionately endangers Black journalists and the communities we serve.”

Not on our watch.

NABJ rejects the notion that journalists can be threatened into silence for doing their jobs. Press freedom is not conditional and it is not subject to political convenience. We have issued a call to journalism organizations, civil rights groups and allies across the industry to stand united against intimidation of the press and in defense of journalists as they carry out their lawful duties. 

That call is already being answered by the organizations listed below who are also committed to protecting press freedom, accountability and the public’s right to truth. We invite others to join us. 

The freedom to report without fear is non-negotiable. Stand with us!

In Solidarity, 

National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ)

American Society of Journalists and Authors