NABJ President Defends Thumbs Down Award Given to Stephen A. Smith
National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) President Errin Haines has formally defended the organization’s decision to issue a “Thumbs Down” award to sports commentator Stephen A.
The Institutional Rationale Behind the Thumbs Down
During an appearance on Roland Martin’s program, Haines articulated that the award—a tradition dating back to 2003—serves as a mechanism for the NABJ to hold influential figures accountable when their rhetoric allegedly reinforces harmful stereotypes or complicates the work of Black media professionals. Alongside Smith, the organization recognized CBS News, The Washington Post, Federal Communications Commission Chair Brendan Carr, and executive DuJuan McCoy.
For those navigating the complexities of media ethics or seeking professional mediation in workplace disputes, understanding the role of oversight bodies is paramount.
Historical Precedent and the Role of Internal Accountability
The “Thumbs Down” award was established by NABJ co-founder DeWayne Wickham. Its original intent was to provide a mechanism for the organization to celebrate the achievements of Black journalists while simultaneously calling out those who fall short of professional or ethical benchmarks. Wickham, appearing alongside Haines, framed the current climate as an existential challenge for Black media.
“We have to struggle to make sure that we can hold off these forces—these enemies—at our gate,” Wickham stated. “We need to understand that we cannot defeat the enemies at the gates if we do not take on and defeat the enemies within.”
The Collision of Individual Influence and Institutional Responsibility
Stephen A. Smith, a prominent figure in sports media, publicly rejected the award, characterizing the NABJ’s actions as “bullsh*t.” While Smith acknowledged a desire to improve his craft, he took issue with the organization’s public critique. Haines declined an invitation to appear on Smith’s program, opting instead for a private dialogue, arguing that her role as president requires prioritizing the integrity of the institution over individual public debates.
The tension highlights a fundamental question: When does personal platforming intersect with collective community responsibility? According to Haines, the relationship between Smith and the NABJ is precisely what necessitates the critique. If the organization is to function as a community, it must be willing to confront those within its sphere of influence when it believes they can “do better.”
Navigating Public Criticism and Corporate Reputation
By targeting both government officials like Brendan Carr and media figures like Smith, the organization is signaling that the “forces” making it harder for Black journalists to operate are multifaceted.
As the debate continues, the focus remains on the long-term impact of these public designations. However, the precedent set by the awards cycle suggests that the NABJ intends to remain an active participant in defining the standards of Black media coverage.
Ultimately, the “Thumbs Down” serves as a reminder that in the modern media ecosystem, influence is not a shield against critique. It is a catalyst for it.