The Washington Association of Black Journalists is deeply alarmed by the massive layoffs at the Washington Post. 

In a moment when audiences desperately need more robust news coverage now more than ever, Post leadership has taken an axe to one of the most prolific newsrooms in the country. 

The Washington Post’s destruction has affected our membership as well, leaving fewer Black journalists and storytellers at the newspaper to report on Washington for its residents. The Post’s dedicated race & identity reporter was laid off, including the team dedicated to the newsroom’s diversity, equity and inclusion efforts. We are still waiting for the full picture of how many Black and journalists of color remain in the newsroom.

We encourage the public to amplify the work of laid-off employees and to stand with the Post Guild at the “Save The Post!” rally on Thursday, February 5, at noon outside The Post’s DC headquarters (1301 K St NW) to let Post owner Jeff Bezos, publisher Will Lewis and executive editor Matt Murray know that these cuts have sharply diminished the quality of the newsroom. 

WABJ will also make a donation to the Post Guild fund that is collecting donations for impacted journalists and staff. WABJ will match up to $500 for WABJ members who contribute to the fund. We have also created a spreadsheet for former employees listing job openings and opportunities (also available on our WABJDC X account).

WABJ stands in solidarity with every employee impacted by these catastrophic layoffs.