NABJ's Co-Chair Karen Attiah Labeled ‘An Activist’ After Stepping Down, Refusing To Interview Trump At Convention
The co-chair of the National Association of Black Journalist (NABJ) convention stepped down 1 day before it was announced Republican nominee Donald Trump would speak in Chicago.
Karen Attiah says her decision was influenced by a number of reasons and wished those that were interviewing the controversial 44th president "the best of luck."
Although the journalist wasn't present — she didn't hesitate to activate her Twitter fingers, now X fingers, to document her rollercoaster of emotions — prompting social media to call out her resignation as "the opposite of journalism."
I have decided to step down as co- chair from this year’s #NABJ24 convention in Chicago.
— Karen Attiah (@KarenAttiah) July 30, 2024
To the journalists interviewing Trump, I wish them the best of luck.
For everyone else, I’m looking forward to meeting and reconnecting with all of you in the Windy City. #nabj
"I have decided to step down as co- chair from this year's #NABJ24 convention in Chicago. To the journalists interviewing Trump, I wish them the best of luck. For everyone else, I'm looking forward to meeting and reconnecting with all of you in the Windy City," she wrote via X.
The 37-year-old writer, journalist, and editor was labeled by some readers in the comments as "an activist."
"A journalist would interview and hear differing views. A propagandist only wants an agenda pushed. Shame on you. I mean thanks," a fellow user responded to her resignation. "This is the opposite of journalism," a second user replied. "Great decision. What a woman of courage. Praying for you and your peace. Have fun networking!!!" a third wrote in opposition to naysayers.
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Per 'ABC News,' the convention focused on journalism education, career development, networking, and innovation, moderated by ABC News Senior Congressional Correspondent Rachel Scott. NABJ president Ken Lemon stated that he was "looking forward to" attendees hearing from the former president on critical issues.
"While NABJ does not endorse political candidates as a journalism organization, we understand the serious work of our members, and welcome the opportunity for them to ask the tough questions that will provide the truthful answers Black Americans want and need to know," Lemon stated, per the news outlet.
The convention is set to run July 31 to August 4 at the Hilton Chicago in the city's South Loop.
