National Press Club Statement On Shooting At Annapolis Capital Gazette Newspaper

WASHINGTON, June 28, 2018 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Following is a statement from Andrea Edney, President of the National Press Club, on the shooting today at the Annapolis Capital Gazette Newspaper.

We stand with our colleagues at the Annapolis Capital Gazette Newspaper which reportedly today suffered an active shooter event where people were injured including a reported five fatalities. We are heartbroken for our colleagues and their families and the Annapolis community they serve.

This shooting is a tragic reminder that reporters – both in the field and in the newsroom are at risk for violence from a variety of sources. Journalism is a dangerous job filled with risks that can turn lethal with little notice. We call on those who use hateful rhetoric to criticize, intimidate and incite violence against journalists for their own political gain to pause and reflect on the damage they do to human beings, their families and their communities. In this climate, we must have more responsible rhetoric from our leaders now and in the future. It is time for leaders to lead and to take care to not encourage hate. To continue the practice of disparaging media in light of today's tragedy would be the height of irresponsibility and a despicable act against journalism, journalists and democracy. 

Contact: Bill McCarren, 202-662-7534 for the National Press Club, [email protected]

SOURCE National Press Club