AAJA Statement On The Attack Of WCCO-TV Photojournalist Dymanh Chhoun

On Wednesday, WCCO-TV photojournalist Dymanh Chhoun was attacked while covering President Donald Trump’s rally in Duluth, Minn. WCCO says Chhoun identified himself as a member of the press and was recording video while in a public space. Chhoun was not hurt in the incident. 

AAJA stands in solidarity with our fellow journalists, and condemns threats and attacks that interfere with journalists’ right to do their jobs without fearing for their safety. We urge police to fully investigate this incident.  

Journalists face an increasingly hostile environment, and video of the incident serves as a reminder of the risks that journalists encounter every day while reporting on the front lines. The press is not the enemy — it serves a fundamental role in a democracy by informing the public and holding powerful people and institutions accountable. Any threat to the press is a threat to a free society, free speech and the First Amendment. 

 

— AAJA Minnesota and AAJA National Board of Directors

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