United States: CFWIJ condemns the misogynistic rhetoric against journalist Sandi Bachom

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August 31, 2021, New York – Journalist Sandi Bachom was targeted with hate speech after sharing her criticism about the anti-Covid-19 vaccination on social media. An anti-vaccine supporter sent her a hateful email questioning her profession and insulted the journalist with misogynistic messages. The Coalition For Women In Journalism (CFWIJ) is utterly dismayed by the hate speech against Sandi. We stand in solidarity with Sandi on this matter and demand a prudent approach to journalists working in perverse conditions during the pandemic. 

 Independent video journalist Sandi Bachom received a hateful email from an anti-vaccine supporter after following the rallies against the Covid-19 vaccination and sharing her criticism. The journalist took to her Twitter account to declare the message. She revealed that she received an email from a 'fan' and said, "You inspire me to keep going. Be sure and wear a mask and get vaccinated."

In the message, the journalist was questioned about her profession and was accused of not being an ‘impartial’ journalist. The unknown attacker also made sexist rhetoric against the journalist.

 After revealing the message on Twitter Sandi received many support messages from her colleagues and followers. She also said that the insult she faced was not her first time. Sandi was exposed to online trolling from pro-Trump supporters during the election in the US. 

Stating that the attacker of the email was not a burner account, she replied, “Apparently it’s not a burner account. We’re looking into it. I got messages like this after Ashley StClair and Posobiec did a hit job on me. Hundreds of these. By the time I posted my video of what happened, it was too late. Got another threat at an anti-vax rally last week.” 

 Sandi took a video about an anti-vax rally and the speaker was Scott Pressler, who is an actor and a Trump supporter, was claimed to be the organiser of the mob storm that took place in Capitol Hill on January 6, 2021. She received the insulting email after the video she filmed.

The Coalition For Women In Journalism condemns the attack Sandi faced and extends her solidarity and support. We demand citizens be judicious towards journalists on sensitive issues such as vaccines, which are closely related to public health.