If Donald Trump Hates the Media, Why Is He Doing This?
There are many proud organizations that focus on the ethics of journalism (e.g., National Press Club, Society for Professional Journalists, local Press Clubs…like the one in Dallas/Fort Worth, my fare burg) and others designed to foster better relationships with those journalists (e.g., PRSA, IABC).
In those prestigious institutions, one might find a dart board bearing the universally mock-able face and hairdo of Mr. Donald J. Trump.
The Don’s journalistic interests usually range from suing a journalist for cockamamie reasons to blasting the general practice for doing the job it’s supposed to do (just not to his liking). Yes, he’s an avowed media troll. Yet some journalists will do anything for eyeballs and affection, which is why Trump is keynoting a First Amendment event later this month.
That makes sense (or is it cents?)…
Ever heard of the Nackey S. Loeb School of Communications? It’s in Manchester, N.H. and was founded by the granddaughter of Edward Willis Scripps (yes, that Scripps). Still not ringing a bell? That lack of awareness might be why the movers and shakers behind the school chose to do this:
Thanks to the great Romensko, we are now aware of this “Wait, what?!” moment.
The 12th annual awards have a great cause and a great recipient: James Foley, who was the first journalist murdered by ISIS. He was also a New Hampshire native, hence his connection to the school (via the institution’s press release).
“The Loeb School is honored to recognize James Foley for his work in telling the personal stories of people trapped by war and senseless violence,” said David Tirrell-Wysocki, executive director of the non-profit school. “He gave voice to people in places where there is no free speech or free press, and he gave his life because of it.”
Lovely. Admirable. Respect. Commendable.
So why in the blue hell is that guy a part of this event? Is it solely an attempt to raise the school’s public profile? And if so, couldn’t they have done ever so slightly better?
A friendly piece of advice: if attendees choose to recite the “Battle Hymn of the Republic” while celebrating the sacrosanct nature of the First Amendment and being led by a man with a surly demeanor and sullied reputation, they may think to alter one key line to read, “We Shall Overcomb.”
He’ll get it.
