Donald Trump’s invitation to address the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) has ignited a heated debate within the organization and sparked online arguments. Traditionally, journalism organizations for people of color invite presidential candidates to speak at their summer gatherings during election years. However, Trump’s acceptance of NABJ’s invitation has raised concerns.

At least one high-profile NABJ member stepped down as a convention co-chair due to Trump’s invitation. Others worry that the convention might become a platform for Trump to make false claims or be seen as winning NABJ’s endorsement.

Trump will be interviewed at 12 p.m. CDT in Chicago by three reporters: Kadia Goba of Semafor, Rachel Scott of ABC News, and Harris Faulkner of Fox News.

Vice President Kamala Harris, the likely Democratic nominee and the first Black woman to hold her office, is not currently scheduled to address the convention.

The debate over NABJ’s invite reflects how journalists grapple with how to approach Trump, considering his past demeaning of prominent Black journalists and attacks on the free press.

NABJ President Ken Lemon insists that the invitation is “absolutely not an endorsement.”

The event provides an opportunity to vet the candidate directly on NABJ’s ground.

In this complex landscape, NABJ members are wrestling with the balance between allowing newsmakers to be heard and addressing concerns about Trump’s history with blacks. The organization’s decision underscores the ongoing challenges faced by journalists when engaging with political figures. 🗞️🤔. ~Balance Due