The National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) convention in Chicago on July 31, 2024 featured a contentious appearance by former President Donald Trump. Here are the key events that occurred:
Trump participated in a Q&A session with political journalists, moderated by Rachel Scott (ABC News), Harris Faulkner (Fox News), and Kadia Goba (Semafor).
The session began with a tense exchange when Rachel Scott asked Trump about his past controversial statements regarding Black journalists and elected officials. Trump reacted defensively, calling it a "horrible" and "rude" introduction.
Trump made provocative comments about Vice President Kamala Harris's racial identity, questioning her Blackness. He made comments implying she was primarily of Indian descent and only "turned Black" for political purposes.
The former president defended his record with the Black community, claiming he had been "the best president for the Black population since Abraham Lincoln".
Trump's appearance at the convention sparked debate and criticism both within and outside the NABJ. Some members defended the decision to invite him, while others protested his presence.
The event drew protesters outside the venue, with some supporting Trump and others opposing his presence in Chicago.
Trump's invitation to the convention led to the resignation of Karen Attiah, the co-chair of the convention, who cited his appearance as part of her reason for stepping down.
Vice President Kamala Harris, who was also invited to the convention, did not attend. There were conflicting reports about whether she declined an offer to appear virtually.
The event highlighted the ongoing tensions surrounding Trump's relationship with the Black community and the media, particularly Black journalists.
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