The National Press Photographers Association (NPPA), National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ, and the Chicago Chapter of the National Association of Black Journalists (NAB Chicago) today condemned the violent attack on a CBS News Chicago reporter and photographer while they were lawfully gathering news near the Adler Planetarium on Monday.
According to published reports, the journalists were preparing for a live broadcast when individuals confronted them, using racial slurs, attempted to intimidate them with a dog, and then deliberately destroyed their professional news equipment and damaged their station vehicle. While we are profoundly relieved that neither journalist suffered serious physical injuries, the outcome could easily have been far worse.
The reported use of racial slurs during this attack is particularly disturbing and underscores that intimidation based on race has no place in a civilized society or in any encounter involving members of the press.
“No journalist should be subjected to threats, violence, or intimidation because of their race or while carrying out their professional responsibilities,” said Brandon Pope, President of NAB Chicago. “This attack underscores the very real risks journalists continue to face and reinforces the need for all of us to stand together in defense of a free and independent press.”
“We are relieved that our colleagues escaped without serious physical injury,” said NPPA President Alex Garcia. “Journalists serve the public by documenting events in our communities, and they should never have to fear being threatened, assaulted, or targeted simply for doing their jobs. Acts of violence and intimidation against journalists are attacks not only on individual members of the news media but also on the public’s right to receive information.”
“We are all deeply disturbed about the attacks on our colleagues,” said Jen Lyons, President and General Manager of CBS Chicago.
“There is no place for violence, intimidation, or hate. The safety of our journalists is non-negotiable, and we remain committed to ensuring they can do their jobs without fear or threat.”
We commend the Chicago Police Department for its swift response and the reported arrests of the suspects. We urge prosecutors to pursue all charges supported by the evidence and to hold those responsible fully accountable for their actions.
NPPA and NABJ-Chicago stand with our colleagues at CBS News Chicago and with journalists everywhere who continue to report the news despite increasing threats, harassment, and violence. No journalist should have to choose between personal safety and fulfilling the essential role of informing the public.