America 1929: John F. Kennedy, the Great Writer

The New York World published the two statements prominently on its front page, along with a commentary.

The commentary stated, "When two of the most prestigious journalism schools speak out at the same time, we should listen carefully. They represent not only the views of academia, but also the conscience of journalism."

The New York Tribune also followed up with a report titled: "Colleges take sides: Journalism educators support Kennedy."

The article details the contents of the two statements and includes interviews with several journalism professors.

In an interview, a professor said, "Kennedy's article should be used as a teaching case in journalism. He pioneered a new genre of journalism, a genre that helps journalists maintain their independent thinking in complex public opinion, and it is worthy of academic study."

Another professor was even more direct: "The New York Daily News' actions are setting a bad example for all journalists. If we allow this behavior to continue, the press will be completely reduced to a tool for power struggles."

The news quickly spread to the Columbia University campus.

Students gathered in front of the journalism school's bulletin board, discussing the matter enthusiastically.

"Did you see that? The college supports Kennedy!"

"I told you long ago, Kennedy's articles are excellent! Those who attack him are the ones with ulterior motives!"

"I'm going to buy the New York Herald and see what he actually wrote!"

Emily, the student union president of the journalism school, stood in front of the bulletin board and said loudly:

"Students! I propose that our student council also issue a statement supporting Mr. Kennedy!"

"good!"

"I agree!"

"We must stand up too!"

The students responded enthusiastically.

Emily immediately organized a group to begin drafting the student council's statement.

A few hours later, the statement was completed.

We are students at Columbia University's Graduate School of Journalism. We are learning how to become qualified journalists.

Mr. Kennedy's article taught us a vivid lesson. He showed us what a true journalist should be like.

He was fearless in the face of power and dared to speak the truth. He remained unmoved by personal gain and upheld professional ethics. This is precisely the kind of role model we should learn from.

We urge all journalism students to stand up and support Mr. Kennedy. Let those who try to manipulate the news with power and money know that the new generation of journalists will not be bought off!

We believe in truth, we believe in justice. We will use our pens to serve the public and speak out for the truth!

The statement quickly spread across campus. In less than a day, more than five hundred students had signed in support.

Students at New York University were not to be outdone. They organized themselves and issued a similar statement.

The student unions of the two universities have also joined forces to plan a rally over the weekend with the theme of "Defending press freedom and opposing slander and framing".

……

In the evening, Arthur arrived at Columbia University at the invitation of Columbia University.

Dean Williams received him in his office.

"Mr. Kennedy, it's a pleasure to meet you." Williams warmly shook Arthur's hand.

"I've read all your articles. They're very well written."

Arthur politely replied, "Thank you, Dean. And thank you even more for your and the academy's support. I never expected such recognition."

Williams waved his hand: "This isn't about endorsement; it's what we should do. As journalism educators, we have a responsibility to support journalists who uphold their ideals."

"Your article, 'When News Becomes a Weapon,' says what we've been wanting to say. News is becoming corrupted; this is a crisis for the entire industry."

"If we don't stand up, if we allow major newspapers to use such methods to suppress journalists who speak the truth, then what right do we have to educate students?"

Arthur listened attentively, his heart filled with emotion.

Williams continued, "Mr. Kennedy, I have a request. I would like you to come to the college and give a speech to the students, to talk about your experiences and your understanding of journalism."

"I believe your words will be very inspiring to them."

Arthur agreed without hesitation:

"I'd be honored. When is a convenient time?"

"How about next Wednesday? I'll let all the students know. I believe many people will come to listen."

"Okay, I'll be there on time."

The two chatted for a while longer, mainly about journalistic ethics and the current state of the industry.

Williams greatly admired Arthur's insights and nodded in agreement several times.

After leaving Columbia University, Arthur went to New York University and visited Prince Pritzker II.

Pritzker II was more direct than Williams.

"Mr. Kennedy, you have done a remarkable thing," he said bluntly.

"As my brother Ralph said, you remind us of my father when he was young."

"He was like that too, unafraid of power and daring to speak the truth. When he founded the New York World, he also faced a lot of attacks. But he never backed down."

"Now, I see the same qualities in you."

Arthur said modestly, "You flatter me. I was just doing what a journalist should do."

Pritzker II shook his head. "No, in this day and age, there are few who can do that. Most people have been bought off by interests and power."

"The fact that you were able to persevere is remarkable in itself."

He paused for a moment, then said, "Mr. Kennedy, I would like to invite you to join an organization."

"What organization?" Arthur asked curiously.

"The Journalists' Association," Pritzker II said.

"This is an organization comprised of veteran journalists dedicated to upholding press freedom and driving industry reform. My father was one of the founders. Now, I am the president of the association."

"We need young people like you to inject new vitality into the association."

Arthur considered it seriously for a moment, then nodded: "I am honored to join you."

"That's wonderful!" said Pritzker II happily. "We have a party next week, and I'll introduce you to the other members."

"They are all seasoned professionals in the industry, so I believe you will have a lot in common."

When he left New York University, it was completely dark. When he returned to his apartment, Mrs. Dalton was waiting for him at the door.

"Mr. Kennedy, there's a letter for you." She handed him a thick envelope.

Arthur took the envelope and saw the sender's address: Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism Student Union.

He opened the envelope, inside was a long list.

The paper was covered with names, more than five hundred in total.

After each name, there is a sentence:

"We support Arthur Kennedy."

"We believe in the truth."

"We will become journalists like him."