We are aware that two of our journalists were involved in a confrontation with law enforcement officers while covering Sunday night’s protests in downtown Richmond. After identifying themselves as members of the press, they and several journalists from other outlets were pepper sprayed, and our reporter was pushed to the ground. There is simply no justification for the police to harm working journalists. We will not shy away from our duty and responsibility under the First Amendment to report what's happening in our community and hold those in power accountable. We are taking all necessary steps to protect our colleagues and their right to report the news.
Jayme Swain
CEO, Virginia Foundation for Public Media and President, VPM