Houston SPJ statement on arrest of journalist at UT Austin
The Houston chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists is appalled at the arrest of a Fox 7 journalist during a pro-Palestinian student-organized protest at UT Austin yesterday. Video on X showed police pushing the reporter to the ground before placing him in handcuffs. His press vest was visible as he lay face down on the ground.
“We expect Texas political and law enforcement authorities to be mindful of the constitutionally protected 1st Amendment right of the free and independent press to cover protests without interference or fear of arrest,” said Sandy West, Houston chapter president.
Journalists play a critical role in U.S. democracy and should be respected while doing their work to provide the public with coverage of events such as campus protests. We call on law enforcement to respect that role.
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SPJ Houston Pro Chapter 