Attacks on press freedom have escalated in the United States and globally, as authoritarian powers grow bolder. A concerning development involves Mario Guevara, a Spanish-language journalist reporting on immigration issues in Atlanta for over two decades. He was detained while livestreaming a "No Kings" protest in mid-June and charged with three misdemeanors. Despite his legal status in the U.S. at the time of arrest, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) issued a detainer, and he was denied bond. CPJ is demanding that ICE obey a federal judge's order and #FreeMario immediately.
According to John Weis, Chief Development Officer, every attempt to silence a reporter is a threat to the public's right to know. Weis added that at a time when voices like Mario's are more vital than ever, the organization is using its support to stand up for press freedom and push back against these attacks.
Weis expressed gratitude for steadfast support, drawing strength from the commitment and courage of journalists reporting the truth, no matter the obstacles.