ESPN's Stephen A. Smith has become embroiled in a public dispute with the National Association of Black Journalists after the organization presented him with its annual "Thumbs Down" Award during its convention on August 15, citing what it characterized as a persistent pattern of disrespectful commentary directed toward prominent Black women across politics, sports and media.
The NABJ bestows its "Thumbs Down" Award upon individuals or organizations whose work demonstrates particular insensitivity toward Black communities, exhibits racist or stereotypical portrayals, or otherwise conflicts with the organization's stated mission. The award recognizes contributions deemed especially problematic in the realms of journalism, reporting, commentary, or photography. In Smith's case, the organization specifically criticized what it described as his "recurring public pattern" of "disparaging commentary" targeting Black women in positions of prominence and visibility. The NABJ stated that such commentary perpetuates harmful stereotypes and undermines respectful representation of Black women in public discourse, directly contradicting the organization's foundational commitment to accurate and inclusive coverage of Black communities.
Smith responded swiftly and forcefully to the recognition, taking to social media to signal his intention to retaliate against the NABJ. He characterized the award as early Christmas and declared his plans to examine the organization's own practices. Smith warned that he would expose which organizations truly merit the "Thumbs Down" designation when it comes to their treatment of Black communities, suggesting he had previously refrained from such public criticism but now felt compelled to respond. The First Take host's combative stance indicated that the controversy would likely extend well beyond the convention floor.
Smith was not the sole recipient of the controversial honor. Other awardees included FCC Chairman Brendan Carr, CBS News, Circle City Broadcasting owner and WISH-TV CEO DuJuan McCoy, and The Washington Post, according to information provided by the Washington Association of Black Journalists president.
The award followed several notable incidents involving Smith and Black women in public life. In 2025, Smith drew criticism for his commentary regarding U.S. Representative Jasmine Crockett of Texas, specifically targeting her political communication style, for which he subsequently offered an apology. That same year, his former ESPN colleague Cari Champion, who co-hosted First Take with Smith from 2012 to 2015, publicly questioned whether he applied consistent standards when critiquing Black women compared to other commentators. Champion highlighted what she viewed as disproportionately harsh treatment of figures including Representative Crockett, Michelle Obama, Jemele Hill and herself, while suggesting he directed less forceful criticism toward other colleagues.
The current dispute carries particular significance given the recent collaborative history between Smith and the NABJ. As recently as 2025, Smith and First Take were prominent attractions at the NABJ's convention in Cleveland, where the program broadcast live before an enthusiastic audience. Smith also participated in educational programming designed to mentor aspiring journalists. This partnership followed another high-profile collaboration in 2024 when First Take broadcast from the organization's Chicago convention alongside guest appearances from notable figures including musician Chance the Rapper and Chicago Bears players.
The rapid deterioration of the relationship between Smith and the NABJ represents a striking reversal from the cordial professional partnership that existed just months earlier. Smith's defiant response suggests the conflict may intensify rather than resolve, positioning this episode as an ongoing public controversy unlikely to fade quickly from public attention.
Source: NewsOne
Leave a Reply