Don’t silence the Voice of America!

Director Michael Abramowitz has distributed this note to his VOA colleagues:

Dear Colleagues,

I wanted to provide a brief update in light of [Wednes]day’s House Foreign Affairs Committee hearing. I know many of you are upset about the wild and inaccurate charges made against Voice of America and its fine journalists. I was upset and especially saddened and angered that your motives and patriotism were impugned. Many of you have come to our country from authoritarian regimes and know well what freedom is all about.

I was also disappointed that as a country we are not having a more reasoned debate about the need for Voice of America in a world in which U.S. national security rivals like China, Russia and Iran are actively spreading false narratives about the United States. I am grateful to those lawmakers in both parties who made precisely this point.

I know that all of you are anxious to get back to work. VOA is fully prepared to address any concerns the Administration may have, to work constructively to put America’s Voice on the air, and to look for ways to be both more efficient and effective. As I have said before, I feel confident that many members of Congress, from both parties, understand the imperative of having a strong Voice of America.

I was struck by the statement made today by General Joe Votel, former Centcom Commander, explaining the importance of Voice of America. You can watch the statement [below], courtesy of our colleagues hashtag#SaveVOA. Again, let me say how proud I am of the work you have done to spread freedom and democracy across the world and for your continued dedication to Voice of America.

With respect and gratitude,

VOA Is a National Security Asset, Not Just a News Outlet

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