I remain heartbroken by the horrific tragedy at the Capital Gazette offices in Annapolis, Maryland. I read and reread about those who died. I look at their pictures and reflect on hopes and dreams extinguished. I reflect on how violence has once again shattered lives and a community.
As the facts come into focus, we know that a historic institution of American journalism was targeted. It’s a sober reminder that reminder that a free press is not free from danger and intimidation. Journalists are armed with constitutional protections and dogged determination but they are vulnerable. And anyone who stokes the fires of hatred at the press, either subtly or explicitly, must take a pause, even if it turns out that that rhetoric did not fuel this particular moment of bloodshed.
It might be hard to truly convey the special bond that exists among journalists. But there is a strong camaraderie that transcends whatever company employs you, or the medium in which you work, or the language that you speak, or the beat that you cover, and even the sense of competition that is also part of the job. You feel a deep connection to your fellow reporters because you recognize that they are also part of an endeavor much bigger than any one of us. We seek to inform, to ferret out the truth, to hold the powerful accountable, and to bear witness. And sometimes that noble pursuit can come at great cost. But reporters tend to persist. I am not surprised that the paper published an edition today.
May all those who perished not be forgotten. May they rest in peace. And may the free press in this country that they served remain a cherished American institution.
