NABJ Stands with the Black Press

In a viral moment making its way around the world, Lynn Jones-Turpin of the Jacksonville Free Press, a Black Press publication, is at the center of attention for praising Jacksonville Jaguars football team Coach Liam Coen during the press conference following their Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026 playoff loss to the Buffalo Bills.

Some press members condemn the comments as unprofessional, others deem them as a positive gesture and show of humanity. While approaches to reporting may differ across beats, formats, and communities, the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) emphasizes that journalism is not monolithic and that experience, integrity, and service to the public remain foundational to the craft. We support the multitude of experiences our members bring.

“At a time when journalism itself faces unprecedented threats, from declining trust to economic disruption, our industry must resist narrow or exclusionary definitions of professionalism,” NABJ President Errin Haines said. “Healthy debate about journalistic practice is necessary. Disparagement that undermines the dignity, credibility, or legitimacy of fellow journalists is not.”

“I know Lynn personally and have communicated with her,” NABJ Vice President-Print Eva D. Coleman said. “The pearl clutching on this is insane. It’s Lynn being Lynn, a respected and caring journalist.”

As a fellow member of the Black Press, Coleman added, “I’ve participated in numerous sports press conferences after games and have seen reporters praise athletes for their performance, etc. Coaches and athletes have their favorite go-tos of journalists in the pool. There’s a lot of laughs, joking and lightheartedness in almost all post-game pressers I’ve been in. Kudos for the virality of this Black Press moment!”

NABJ Vice President-Digital Roland Martin, also a member of the Black Press, is encouraged by the attention Jones-Turpin and the publication is receiving.

“I am pleased that so many are showing Lynn and the Jacksonville Free Press so much love,” Martin said. “The Black Press has always operated by a different ethos, and a commitment to speak to the needs of African Americans.”

NABJ encourages newsrooms, journalists, and media consumers alike to engage these moments thoughtfully and to recognize the value of diverse voices, perspectives, and reporting styles that collectively strengthen the profession.

NABJ Board of Directors

National Association of Black Journalists