SAJA STATEMENT ON HARASSMENT OF JOURNALISTS
October 30, 2024

SAJA, the South Asian Journalists Association, strongly condemns the online harassment — including threats of violence and misogynistic abuse —  against journalists who authored an article published in Al Jazeera on October 15, 2024. 

The article, reported with support from Columbia Journalism School, brought to light the Capitol Hill lobbying efforts of the Hindu American Foundation, a U.S.-based religious charitable organization. 

SAJA upholds the right of journalists to do their jobs freely and without fear of intimidation; to report the truth and hold those in power accountable, while remaining safe.

SAJA appeals to all individuals and groups to engage in civil discussions and debates. 

If you are a journalist experiencing online harassment for your work, here are some resources:

• Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ): Offers digital security workshops and consultations to help journalists prepare for and manage online harassment.

• International Women’s Media Foundation (IWMF): Provides digital security assistance and has an Emergency Fund offering grants for psychological and medical care, temporary relocation, and legal aid for women journalists. IWMF Digital Safety Kit pdf.

• Coalition Against Online Violence: Offers emergency support for journalists facing online harassment, including digital security and psychosocial assistance. 

• Access Now: Provides 24/7 emergency digital security support in multiple languages.

ABOUT US: SAJA, the South Asian Journalists Association, founded in NYC in March 1994 with 18 members, represents 1,000+ journalists of South Asian origin working in the US and Canada. It serves as a network for education, inspiration and training for those journalists and those covering South Asia and the South Asian diaspora. SAJA aims to upgrade the coverage of South Asia and improve journalism standards. Over the years, SAJA has given out more than $400,000 in scholarships and fellowships. More info at SAJA.org · X: @sajaHQ · IG: @thesajaofficial