NBJC Condemns Arrest of Don Lemon, Other Journalists as Dangerous Escalation Against Press Freedom
CONTACT: Jordan Wilhelmi | jordan@unbendablemedia.com
WASHINGTON — Dr. David J. Johns, CEO and Executive Director of the National Black Justice Collective (NBJC), issued the following statement in response to the arrest of Don Lemon, and other journalists, following their coverage of a protest in Minnesota:
“The arrest of Don Lemon, along with Trahem Jeen Crew, Georgia Fort, and Jamael Lydell Lundy, is a deeply troubling escalation in the Trump administration’s weaponization of government power to stoke fear, sow confusion, and suppress dissent. Arresting journalists for bearing witness to a protest, particularly after a federal judge found no evidence of criminal conduct, is an extraordinary abuse of power and a direct assault on the First Amendment.
“Constitutional rights are being treated as conditional and explicitly denied based on who you are and what truths you tell. This is purely about retaliation and sends a chilling message to journalists—especially Black and LGBTQ+ journalists—that holding power accountable comes with state imposed retribution.
“At a moment when communities are demanding transparency and accountability in the wake of deadly federal action, the administration has chosen to target members of the press rather than investigate the loss of life that sparked public outcry. This choice speaks volumes and is shaping a climate of fear and chaos ahead of critical midterm elections.
“NBJC calls for the immediate release of Don Lemon, Trahern Jeen Crew, Georgia Fort, and Jamael Lydell Lundy, and the dismissal of all charges. Journalism is not a crime, and no administration should be permitted to criminalize truth-telling.”