New memorial honors fallen journalists in Washington D.C

Planning is underway for a new monument in Washington D.C. to honor journalists who have lost their lives in the line of duty, particularly in light of the tragic Capital Gazette shooting in 2018. The memorial aims to serve as a reminder of the importance of journalism and the free press, with the hope that it will attract visitors who may not have intended to visit. The design includes a Remembrance Hall featuring the First Amendment engraved in steel, symbolizing the ongoing struggle for press freedom. The initiative was conceived by former Congressman David Dreier, following the attack on the Capital Gazette, where five staff members were killed by a gunman unhappy with a truthful story about him. This incident marked one of the deadliest attacks on journalists in U.S. history, prompting a national conversation about the safety of journalists and the value of a free press. The Fallen Journalists Memorial Foundation was established in 2019, exactly one year after the shooting, to advocate for the memorial's construction. The foundation aims to unveil the memorial in June 2028, coinciding with the tenth anniversary of the Capital Gazette shooting. In December 2020, Congress authorized the foundation to proceed with the project, recognizing the need for a monument dedicated to the ideals of a free press and the sacrifices made by journalists. This memorial is intended to be a beacon for both domestic and international visitors, emphasizing the critical role of journalism in society. It will not only honor those who have perished but also inspire future generations to appreciate and uphold the values of a free press.