My case was dismissed!
My statement for the National Writers Union:
On May 2nd, 2024, I was arrested while reporting on the ground at Portland State University. I was documenting the police’s actions as they cleared an encampment and library occupation in support of the liberation of Palestine when, later that evening, I was arrested by the Portland Police Bureau while filming the violent arrests occurring in the park in front of the PSU library.
Following my arrest, I faced consistent harassment from the police until I was finally let out of jail early the next morning. This harassment included racist remarks, sexual harassment, misogyny, a cop taking a selfie with me as I was in handcuffs, and the persistent interruption of all my phone calls.
This experience has highlighted the critical importance of press freedom and the rights of journalists to report on public events without fear of arrest or intimidation. The need for transparency and accountability in our institutions grows increasingly urgent. And under a Trump presidency, protecting our First Amendment rights is more important than ever.
My trial was set to begin on January 27th. I was offered a plea deal multiple times, but I refused to plead guilty to a crime I did not commit. My commitment to uncovering the truth and informing the public remains steadfast, even in the face of these challenges.
You can read the rest of my statement at the link attached.
While the state loves waiting until the last minute to extend the punishment for as long as they can, I genuinely don’t think this would have been possible without support from multiple unions, the press freedom advocacy groups, and all of the solidarity. Thank you 🖤
https://bsky.app/profile/thenwu.bsky.social/post/3lgjfvbdfik2p
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