Buffalo, N.Y. — A local event aimed at supporting journalism was recently postponed due to serious threats made against a cartoonist. This followed the release of an editorial cartoon that sparked considerable outrage among some members of the public.
The cartoon, created by Pulitzer Prize-winning artist Adam Zyglis and published in The Buffalo News, depicted a man wearing a MAGA cap caught in Texas floodwaters, holding a sign that reads “Help.” A speech bubble suggests the idea that “Gov’t is the problem not the solution,” which resonated with many but upset others.
Tragically, the flooding in Texas has resulted in over 120 confirmed deaths and left more than 170 people missing. In this challenging climate, the Buffalo Newspaper Guild had organized a public event at the Buffalo History Museum to promote local journalism, tied to an exhibit featuring Zyglis’ work.
However, threats emerged from those who were displeased with the cartoon, prompting the guild to make the difficult decision to postpone the event. They reported that the confrontation plans directed at Zyglis escalated to death threats against both the cartoonist and his family.
The guild strongly condemned the actions of those who attempted to intimidate Zyglis, stating that such behavior undermines the fundamental principles of a free press and creates a hostile environment for journalists and their allies.
Zyglis addressed the issue publicly, stating that threats against him or his family are unacceptable responses to differing opinions. While the event has been delayed, the guild has indicated that they plan to reschedule it in the future as a means to continue promoting the importance of local journalism.
