Calls for change at CBS are spreading throughout journalism circles after the Los Angeles Times published an explosive investigation Sunday on alleged racist and toxic work environments at CBS-owned TV stations.
The National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) met with CBS executives on Sunday night to demand the “immediate firing” of Peter Dunn, president of CBS Stations; and David Friend, senior vice president of news for CBS Stations and VP of News, at WCBS-TV New York.
“The troubling issues raised in the story are not just confined to one TV station. NABJ has heard from numerous CBS employees across the country and has been made aware of multiple lawsuits and investigations,” NABJ said in a statement. “It is clear that there is a massive problem among CBS owned-and-operated stations, and in order for the company’s culture to be transformed, it must begin with the firing of Dunn and Friend.”
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The Times story included detailed accounts from former local news managers who alleged Dunn “cultivated a hostile work environment that included bullying female managers and blocking efforts to hire and retain Black journalists.”
Another shocking revelation quoted a manager as saying Dunn regularly disparaged legendary CBS 3 Philadelphia news anchor Ukee Washington and described him as “just a jive guy,” adding, “all he does is dance.”
The story also alleged a Black female anchor of Ethiopian origin was fired because Dunn “hated her face.”
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On Monday evening, CBS issued a statement saying Dunn and Friend have been placed on administrative leave as “a third-party investigation” is conducted into the accusations.
“CBS is committed to a diverse, inclusive and respectful workplace where all voices are heard, claims are investigated and appropriate action is taken where necessary,” the network said.
