(WASHINGTON)— Standing with journalists who have faced retaliation for their speech, PEN America released the following statement expressing concern about the firings and suspensions of journalists – and the subsequent chilling effect they create – after the fatal shooting of Turning Point USA Founder and CEO Charlie Kirk.
“The firing and suspension of multiple journalists after the fatal shooting of Charlie Kirk should alarm anyone who cares about free speech and a free press,” said Tim Richardson, program director, Journalism and Disinformation. “Taken together, these measures risk creating a chilling effect that extends beyond those directly targeted, weakening public discourse at a moment when open debate is urgently needed. Journalists should not have to fear losing their jobs simply for offering analysis or asking tough questions on matters of public concern. These reprisals come amid a broader climate of fear and intimidation that seeks to silence the exchange of ideas. PEN America stands with journalists who have been targeted and calls on media organizations to resist political pressure and to reaffirm their commitment to protecting diverse viewpoints and fearless reporting.”
Matthew Dowd, a veteran MSNBC commentator, was fired over remarks he made on air; Karen Attiah, a columnist for the Washington Post, said she was fired after posting on social media about gun violence and racial dynamics; Florida Politics reporter A.G. Gancarski was suspended for asking Florida Rep. Randy Fine about his position on gun control; an Arizona sportswriter was fired for criticizing Kirk’s positions on guns and calling him “evil.”
About PEN America
PEN America stands at the intersection of literature and human rights to protect free expression in the United States and worldwide. We champion the freedom to write, recognizing the power of the word to transform the world. Our mission is to unite writers and their allies to celebrate creative expression and defend the liberties that make it possible. Learn more at pen.org.
Contact: Suzanne Trimel, [email protected], (201) 247-5057