In the aftermath of the Trump Administration’s decision to end federal grant funding to the U.S. Agency for Global Media, Voice of America (VOA) journalists faced unexpected layoffs and a sudden shutdown of operations. On Friday, however, more than 200 VOA staff members received a valuable career boost from the newly established Press Freedom Center at the US National Press Club, said a press release.
The Center funded entry to a major job fair held at the Club, where journalists had the chance to meet employers such as the Associated Press, City Paper, and the University of Maryland. The event also included headshot sessions, informative panels, and a therapy dog named Armand, who helped alleviate the anxiety of journalists during a tense time.
Beyond offering career assistance, the Press Freedom Center is providing continued support to VOA journalists still imprisoned for their work and helping those on visas who may face deportation to hostile countries. The Center is also organizing a news conference next Tuesday for the plaintiffs and their lawyer involved in the lawsuit against the Trump Administration over VOA funding cuts.
Although the Press Freedom Center is still in its early stages, its growing impact is evident, offering much-needed help to VOA journalists navigating these difficult times. National Press Club stated that support for the Center’s work can be contributed through donations via their website.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
