NABJ Presents Thumbs Down to Stephen A. Smith

The National Association of Black Journalists presented ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith with its Thumbs Down award during its Salute to Excellence Awards Gala in Atlanta on Saturday, August 15, 2026. The organization cited a "recurring public pattern of disparaging commentary directed at prominent Black women across politics, sports, and media."

NABJ announced the award during its annual convention. A video played at the event stated that Smith's commentary "reinforces harmful narratives, undermines the fair and respectful representation of Black women in public discourse, and stands in direct conflict with NABJ's longstanding commitment to accurate, responsible, and inclusive portrayals of Black communities." According to the group's published criteria, the Thumbs Down award recognizes individuals or organizations responsible for insensitive, racist, or stereotypical coverage or commentary about the Black community. NABJ President Errin Haines said during the presentation that recipients could change their conduct, adding, "NABJ will not be silent. Not in this moment, and not on my watch."

Other 2026 Thumbs Down recipients included FCC Chairman Brendan Carr, CBS News, The...