America 1929: John F. Kennedy, the Great Writer

A special meeting is underway at Columbia University's Graduate School of Journalism.

The conference room was full of people.

Dean Walter Williams sat in the main seat, flanked by the college's professors.

Several newspapers were on the table, the most eye-catching being today's New York Herald.

"Gentlemen, I believe everyone has already read this article."

Williams pointed to the headline in the newspaper, "When News Becomes a Weapon."

"This is one of the best news commentaries I've read in recent years."

"The author's understanding of media ethics and grasp of the essence of news far surpasses that of many veteran journalists who have worked in the industry for many years."

An older professor nodded in agreement:

"I agree with the dean's view. The article's argument is very clear. It points out the most critical problem in the journalism industry today: news is transforming from a public service tool into a weapon in power struggles."

Another professor added:

"Moreover, the author's courage is admirable. When attacked by a major newspaper like the New York Times, he did not choose to confront it directly, but instead discussed the issue from a higher level. This demonstrates extremely high wisdom."

Williams tapped the table:

"That's precisely why I've called this meeting. Ladies and gentlemen, as journalism educators, we cannot remain silent about such matters."

"Mr. Kennedy's experience is not just a personal issue. It concerns the future of journalism as a whole. If we allow major newspapers to use such methods to suppress journalists who speak the truth, what right do we have to educate students to uphold journalistic ethics?"

A chorus of approval erupted in the conference room.

"The dean is right!"

"We must stand up!"

"This is the responsibility of journalism educators!"

Williams nodded in satisfaction: "Very good. Then I propose that a public statement be issued in the name of Columbia University's Graduate School of Journalism, supporting Mr. Kennedy and condemning the New York Daily News's misconduct."

"At the same time, we can invite Mr. Kennedy to give a lecture at the college, so that students can hear how a real journalist thinks."

"I agree!"

"I agree!"

The professors all raised their hands in support.

Williams stood up: "Then it's settled. I'll go draft the statement now. We'll send it to all the major newspapers first thing tomorrow morning."

"Let all of New York, no, let all of America know that Columbia Graduate School of Journalism supports true journalists!"

The meeting room erupted in enthusiastic applause.

Meanwhile, similar discussions are taking place at NYU's journalism department in Greenwich Village.

Department Head Joseph Pritz II was receiving several professors in his office.

"Mr. Pritzker, have you read today's article in the New York Herald?"

A young professor asked.

"I've read it. It's very well written. This Arthur Kennedy is a talent."

Another professor said:

"He also has great courage. To remain calm under such circumstances and discuss the issue from a theoretical perspective is something most people can't do."

Pritzker II pondered for a moment and said:

"My father always emphasized that the mission of journalism is to serve the public, not the powerful and wealthy. He founded the New York World with this in mind."

"But now, too many newspapers have forgotten this. They treat journalism as a business, as a political tool. Journalists like Kennedy who uphold their ideals are becoming increasingly rare."

"So we should support him even more," the young professor said.

"If even we journalism educators don't stand up, who will?"

Pritzker II nodded:

"You're right. I've made up my mind. The NYU Journalism Department will issue a statement supporting Mr. Kennedy."

"At the same time, I will contact the journalism schools of several other universities to see if we can join forces to create a greater impact."

"That's a great idea!" the professors all agreed.

Pritzker II picked up the phone and began dialing:

"I'll call Williams in Colombia first and see what's going on there."

The call was answered quickly.

"Williams? This is Pritzker. Yes, it's about Kennedy. What are your plans?... What? You're also planning to issue a statement? Great! Let's work together then..."

Two leading figures in New York's journalism education community discussed the matter over the phone for more than half an hour before finally reaching an agreement.

The next morning, major newspapers in New York received two statements.

One is from Columbia University's Graduate School of Journalism, and the other is from New York University's Department of Journalism.

The two statements are largely similar, with the core message being: support for Arthur Kennedy, condemnation of the New York Daily News's misconduct, and a call for a return to professional ethics in journalism.

Columbia University's statement reads:

We have noticed that The New York Daily News recently published a series of offensive articles targeting journalist Arthur Kennedy. These articles are not based on factual reporting, but are full of conjecture and slander.

As journalism educators, we are deeply concerned about this. The essence of journalism is to pursue the truth and serve the public. When news becomes a weapon to attack dissent, it loses its meaning.

Mr. Kennedy's series of articles published in the New York Herald demonstrates the courage and wisdom expected of a journalist. His article, "When Journalism Becomes a Weapon," profoundly reveals the current predicament facing the press.

We call on all journalists to return to the essence of journalism and uphold professional ethics. We also urge the public to view this debate rationally and not to be misled by those with ulterior motives.

Columbia University's Graduate School of Journalism will continue to support journalists who uphold their ideals and pursue the truth. We believe that truth will ultimately triumph over lies, and justice will ultimately prevail over evil.

New York University's statement was even more direct:

Joseph Pritzker, the father of journalism, once said, "The primary duty of journalists is to serve the public, not the powerful."

Mr. Kennedy's article perfectly exemplifies this concept. His fearlessness in the face of power and his willingness to speak the truth are precisely the qualities we hope to cultivate in journalists.

On the contrary, the New York Daily News' actions are a trampling of journalistic ethics. Attacking a journalist with unsubstantiated accusations is not journalism; it's defamation.

The Department of Journalism at New York University firmly supports Mr. Kennedy. We call upon all conscientious journalists to stand up and speak out for the truth.

At the same time, we must warn those who attempt to manipulate the news with power and money: the dignity of journalism cannot be trampled upon, and the conscience of journalists cannot be bought.

The two statements immediately caused a sensation in the press upon their release.