Gordon Smith, president of the National Association of Broadcasters, sat down with Detroits WDIV to discuss the state of local journalism and freedom of the press. Smiths remarks come as journalists voice concerns about violence and aggression toward reporters and crews in the field while they cover unrest in cities across the country. Our fellow citizens deserve and need to hear what is reported to have context of whats happening in their communities, Smith told WDIV. And when theyre put under stress like this, where theyre subject to danger from protesters but even worse, I suppose, from police some police organizations that have pepper sprayed them and tear gassed them and even fired rubber bullets at them this is simply unacceptable.Listen to Smiths complete remarks in the clip above.

During these times, local news is more important than ever. With the most recent protests, we as journalists are concerned about the violence weve experienced directed toward us. News4Jaxs sister station WDIV spoke with Gordon Smith, president of the National Association of Broadcasters, about the importance of safety while working to get the news to you. Our fellow citizens deserve and need to hear what is reported, to have context of whats happening in their communities. To watch the full interview with Smith, press the play button above.