America-Bangladesh Press Club Hosts Seminar on Media’s Role Amid Current U.S. Challenges
The America-Bangladesh Press Club organized a seminar titled “The Current Situation in the United States: The Role of Media” on Saturday in Jackson Heights, New York. The event was chaired by Press Club President Shawkat Osman Rachi and moderated by journalist and writer Darpan Kabir.
The seminar featured discussions by senior journalist Monzur Ahmad, journalist and playwright Saeed Tarek, writer and columnist Hasan Ferdous, New York Bangladesh Press Club President Monwarul Islam, Weekly Probas Editor Mohammad Saeed, First Alo North America Executive Editor Monjurul Haq, Probas News Editor Shamim Ahmed, South Asian Times Editor Deepak Acharya, First Alo correspondent Tofazzal Liton, journalist Mahamudul Hasan Pahlavi, and activist Mizanur Rahman. Keynote remarks were delivered by TBN24 Television Director and talk show host Habib Rahman.
Senior journalist Monzur Ahmad highlighted the challenges facing Bangla-language publications in New York, citing a lack of professional journalism. He stressed that many journalists rely on oral reporting rather than thorough written work, and warned against irresponsible reporting, unverified online news, and sensationalism in social media, which threaten media credibility.
Speakers emphasized that immigrant communities in the U.S. are facing difficult times, making accurate, objective, and timely reporting even more critical. They warned against spreading false or sensational news that can cause unnecessary panic.
The panel also discussed the struggles of print and electronic Bangla media today, stressing the importance of unity, professionalism, and accountability among journalists and media owners. Speakers called on media professionals to uphold the tradition of protecting immigrant rights and maintaining ethical journalism, as has been done historically.
