Maryland Association of Black Journalists roundtable highlights minority journalists’ fears

Written by: Miguel Zarate 🇲🇽

Hailey Closson speaking about her experiences at the roundtable discussion.  (Miguel Zarate)

Journalists from various University of Maryland publications came together on March 11 for a roundtable discussion about experiences and challenges faced by minority writers and editors. The event was a part of Black Press Week, which had a collection of other events hosted by the Maryland Association of Black Journalists.

The MABJ is the University of Maryland chapter of the National Association of Black Journalists,  a non-profit organization that advocates for Black journalists and offers programs and opportunities to its members.

Correspondents from The Black Explosion, The Diamondback, Mitzpeh and other campus organizations were in attendance. The event also welcomed journalists from Bowie State University and Howard University. 

They discussed their collective experiences as minority journalists covering the news. From broadcast journalists, to photographers, to writers, multiple types of journalists were in attendance. There was a sense of anxiety in the room as they discussed their feelings about the new presidential administration. 

“This time around I feel like this presidency is more intense, more extreme,” said Madeline Seck, president of MABJ.

They were joined by Grant Hines, a desk assistant at NBC News' Washington Bureau who is also the National Association of Black Journalists student representative. His experience as a professional aided conversations since he works directly in Washington, D.C. He said that Trump’s administration has made things harder for journalists. 

“One thing about people who cover him, we don’t get his schedule, whereas previous administrations would send out the president’s schedule the day before, so we can plan ahead,” Hines said. “We just have to play it by ear.” 

While the mood was anxious, there was a sense of catharsis as journalists spoke regarding their fears and annoyances. 

“This is the best time of our lives, right now, to be journalists and to understand politics,” said Isaiah Hayes, MABJ vice president. “This administration is seasoning us as journalists a lot faster.”