Journalist Group Delays Decision to Ax "Helen Thomas Achievement" Award

Story tools

Comments

A A AResize

Print

Share and Email

 

The Arab American News, News Report, Posted: Jan 11, 2011

DEARBORN, Mich.—The executive committee of the Society of Professional Journalists voted on Saturday to recommend removing its Helen Thomas Lifetime Achievement Award, reports the Arab American News. According to the report, the recommendation requires a review by the SPJ's full board prior to approval, and a final decision is expected in 10 days.

In a news release, SPJ President Hagit Limor said the issue is complex and letters and comments from both sides were considered. “Because of the importance of this decision, it is appropriate to put this before the full board,” he said.

Thomas, the 90-year-old veteran White House correspondent of Lebanese descent, resigned last June amid controversy over remarks she made on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which some interpreted as anti-Semitic. Thomas apologized shortly thereafter, but defended previous statements in a recent speech supporting First Amendment rights.

Wayne State University, Thomas’ alma mater, recently discontinued their “Helen Thomas Spirit of Diversity in Media” award.
 

Comments

 
Anonymous

Posted Jan 15 2011

Helen Thomas is not anti-Semitic. She deserves great praise and respect for her lifetime of dedicated reporting, much more honest and inquisitive than the practically worthless majority of reporters who play it safe and go along with the deception. This 'anti-Semitic' nonsense has become a new kind of rigtht-wing 'trap' for the gullible public.

Disclaimer: Comments do not necessarily reflect the views of New America Media. NAM reserves the right to edit or delete comments. Once published, comments are visible to search engines and will remain in their archives. If you do not want your identity connected to comments on this site, please refrain from commenting or use a handle or alias instead of your real name.