FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 13, 2025

Community Demands Accountability and Media Attention Following New Year’s Day Shooting of Krishana Polite

First Black Chief of Staff for NC Lt. Governor, Victim of Violence, Largely Ignored by Local and State Media

GREENSBORO, NC — On January 1, 2025, Krishana Polite, the first Black Chief of Staff for the North Carolina Lieutenant Governor, was tragically injured in a shooting in Greensboro. Despite her prominent position and the broader implications of this shocking act of violence, the incident has received minimal attention from Greensboro/Winston-Salem and North Carolina media outlets.

Ms. Polite’s historic appointment marked a significant step forward in representation and leadership within state government. Her dedication to public service and advocacy for equity has made her a beloved and respected figure in North Carolina politics. Yet, this act of violence against a trailblazing Black woman has been met with a deafening silence from local and regional media.

“Krishana Polite has broken barriers and served as a beacon of hope for so many in our community,” said Immanuel Jarvis, President of the Frederick Douglass Freedom Alliance of NC. “The lack of media coverage surrounding this shooting not only dismisses the seriousness of the attack but also perpetuates a disturbing trend of neglecting stories that center Black women and leaders of color who happen to be Republicans.”

The community is calling for transparency and accountability from law enforcement in Greensboro, as well as a commitment from media outlets to cover this story with the gravity it deserves. Local law enforcement has provided few updates on the investigation, leaving concerned citizens with more questions than answers.

A Broader Pattern of Media Neglect

This incident highlights a systemic issue in which stories involving Black leaders, particularly Republicans, fail to receive the same level of attention as their counterparts. The Greensboro and broader North Carolina media have a duty to amplify voices and stories that matter, particularly when they involve public figures targeted by violence.

A Call to Action

The undersigned call on local and state media to fulfill their responsibility to the public:

Report on the progress of the investigation into the shooting of Krishana Polite.
Acknowledge the broader implications of violence against women and leaders of color.
Commit to equitable coverage that reflects the diversity and importance of North Carolina’s leaders.

As Ms. Polite continues to recover, her resilience and strength inspire us. However, silence from media and institutions sends a troubling message about whose stories matter. This must change.

For updates or to join our efforts in seeking justice for Krishana Polite, please contact: Ashley Stowers, ashley.fdfnc@gmail.com

Please consider the journey ahead for Krishana and her family and donate to their GoFundMe. Click on the button below and help to exceed the goal of $13,000.

GoFundMe for Krishana Polite - https://bit.ly/4juCHvp

Communications Department

Frederick Douglass Freedom Alliance of NC

Community Demands Media Attention of Shooting of Krishana Polite

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