by guest contributor Tamara Buchwald
Photo credit: Nathan Posner
As part of the White House Correspondents Dinner weekend, The Washington Association of Black Journalists (WABJ) hosted a vibrant and inspiring evening titled “A Toast to Press Freedom” bringing together journalists, media professionals and advocates for a night of celebration, conversation and recognition of the critical role of the press in American democracy.
The event took place at the stylish headquarters of the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) with its sleek design and cultural significance providing a fitting venue for a celebration centered on media and freedom of expression. Hosting the event at the RIAA headquarters was more than a matter of logistics — it was symbolic. The RIAA represents the voices of the recording industry, advocating for creative freedom and expression. The venue, adorned with platinum records and iconic memorabilia was transformed into a space where the power of media, music and storytelling intersected.
The event brought together an exceptional group of journalists such as AP’s Darlene Superville, PBS’ Geoff Bennett and CNBCs’ Karen James Sloan in addition to other media professionals and advocates to honor the contributions of Black reporters who have shaped the narrative of American politics from the White House press room. The President of the Recording Industry Association of America, Michelle Ballantyne welcomed everyone to the event followed by remarks from the WABJ President Phil Lewis.
Karen James Sloan Kelsey Nicole Nelson
Phil Lewis introduced MSNBCs’ Eugene Daniels who also serves as the President of the White House Correspondents Association. Daniels acknowledged all of the reporters in the room for all the hard work they do and thanked his colleagues for the support he receives. His focus and the Board’s focus this year is “to come back to the center of journalism” and “defending it against anyone who has issues with reporters asking questions on behalf of the American people.”
Phil Lewis and Eugene Daniels
The evening’s theme, “A Toast to Press Freedom,” served as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by journalists in maintaining an independent and free press. The gathering provided a platform for attendees to reflect on the importance of press freedom in a democratic society and to reaffirm their commitment to truth-telling and accountability in journalism.
Beyond the formal program, the event facilitated networking among media professionals, fostering discussions on strategies to support and advance the work of Black journalists. Attendees shared insights on combating misinformation, promoting diversity in newsrooms and ensuring equitable representation in political reporting.
Michele Ballantyne
The event was more than a party — it was a reaffirmation of the critical role that journalists, especially Black journalists, play in sustaining democracy. In a time when journalism is both under threat and more essential than ever, WABJ’s gathering served as a reminder that press freedom is not just a principle — it’s a daily practice and one worth toasting.
