ESPN host Stephen A. Smith announced his intention to challenge the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) after receiving a ‘Thumbs Down’ award. The award was given due to his alleged disparagement of prominent Black women. Smith took to a social media post to express his readiness to address the issue.
Smith emphasized that this award signals the beginning of a broader conflict with the organization. He expressed in a post on X, ‘This is the epitome of Christmas arriving early. The @NABJ wants to call folks out, fine! You had your turn, now mine is coming. And make no mistake…I’m coming.’
Smith, a prominent ESPN reporter and analyst, known for making outspoken comments, conveyed that he plans to review NABJ’s record closely. He stated, ‘Remember @NABJ, you asked for it. I’ve shut my mouth for years. Now y’all started something.’
The NABJ presented the award during its annual Salute to Excellence Awards Gala in Atlanta. The event recognized various individuals, alongside Smith, including FCC Chairman Brendan Carr and CBS News, for content considered insensitive to Black communities.
Smith has established a recurring public pattern of disparaging commentary directed at prominent Black women across politics, sports, and media,the award presentation noted.
The NABJ explained that award recipients have the opportunity to address the criticism and change their behavior. NABJ President Errin Haines stressed, ‘The door is open. The conversation is available, and the opportunity to change is real. But NABJ will not be silent.’
The response to the award has drawn various reactions. Curtis Houck of the Media Research Center criticized journalism organizations, suggesting they are disconnected from the public. Ameshia Cross, a Democratic strategist who attended the dinner, echoed a desire for the event to focus on journalism’s positive contributions.