Washington, DC (February
8, 2012) – The following
is a statement from Gregory H. Lee Jr., President of the National Association
of Black Journalists (NABJ), on the recent suspension of NABJ member and CNN
commentator, Roland Martin.
"This is a teachable
moment for all journalists. We are reminded that what we communicate in print
and broadcast - and now through social media - has considerable power. NABJ
does not support any commentary in any medium that is insensitive or offensive.
Mr. Martin is one of our
most committed members. In lieu of his presence on CNN, until this matter
is resolved, we encourage the network to continue to present a diverse offering
of voices in its
programming."
An advocacy group
established in 1975 in Washington, D.C., NABJ is the largest organization for
journalists of color in the nation, and provides career development as well as
educational and other support to its members worldwide.