On April 7, 2025, Grupo Difusora is paying tribute to journalists across Brazil, recognizing their vital role in society amidst the rising tide of misinformation and the challenges faced by the profession. This year marks a significant occasion as it also commemorates the 117th anniversary of the Brazilian Press Association (ABI), which was founded on the same date in 1908.
The history behind Journalist's Day is rooted in the legacy of Giovanni Battista Libero Badaró, a journalist and doctor who was assassinated in 1830 due to his political views and critiques of the ruling powers. His murder sparked a national movement that ultimately led to Emperor D. Pedro I's abdication of the throne on April 7, 1831. In 1931, the ABI officially established this date as Journalist's Day to honor Badaró's contributions to the fight for freedom of expression.
Adalberto Melo, the Director of Journalism at TV Difusora, emphasized the commitment of journalists to truth and society, stating, "Being a journalist is more than a profession. It is a daily commitment to truth, society, and history. We continue together because informing is our mission." This sentiment reflects the dedication that journalists exhibit in their daily work, often under challenging circumstances.
However, as the celebration unfolds, it also highlights the pressing issues facing the journalism sector. According to the National Federation of Journalists (Fenaj), the industry has seen a staggering 18% decline in formal employment from 2013 to 2023. This decline raises concerns about job security and the future of journalism in Brazil.
On this day, various journalist organizations are advocating for better working conditions, fair wages, and the need to combat the precarious state of journalism exacerbated by economic pressures and rampant disinformation. Samira de Castro, the president of Fenaj, stressed the importance of public policies that support sustainable journalism, stating, "We need to ensure that journalists can work freely and effectively, upholding the truth in their reporting."
In Belém, a city hosting the upcoming COP-30, the situation for journalists illustrates the broader challenges faced outside major urban centers. The local minimum wage is set at R$ 1,985, while in other municipalities, it hovers around R$ 1,800—figures alarmingly close to the national minimum wage of R$ 1,500. Vito Gemaque, president of the Sinjor-PA, is advocating for a 10% salary increase and the establishment of a minimum wage of two salaries. He lamented, "Even with the circulation of public funds in advertising, journalists do not see a return."
As negotiations for better pay are set for May 1, uncertainty looms as companies have yet to respond to these pressing demands. This lack of response underscores the precarious situation many journalists find themselves in, grappling with economic instability while striving to uphold their commitment to the truth.
The essence of journalism, as celebrated on this day, is captured in the words of various journalists and thinkers who have articulated the importance of the profession. As George Orwell famously stated, "Journalism is publishing what someone doesn't want published. Everything else is advertising." This perspective resonates deeply in today's media landscape, where the fight against misinformation is more critical than ever.
Ruy Barbosa, a prominent Brazilian jurist and journalist, once said, "The press is the eyes of the nation. It is how the nation sees, speaks, and hears." This assertion highlights the integral role journalists play in shaping public discourse and informing citizens about local, national, and international events.
On this day, many are taking the opportunity to reflect on the role of journalism in society and to honor those who practice it with integrity, courage, and responsibility. The ABI, in its 117 years of existence, has consistently fought for democracy, human rights, and press freedom, which are essential for a healthy society.
As we celebrate Journalist's Day, let us recognize the journalists who strive to uncover the truth, often at great personal risk. Their work not only informs the public but also holds power accountable, making them indispensable in a functioning democracy.
In conclusion, Journalist's Day serves as a reminder of the dedication, resilience, and passion that define the profession. It is a call to support journalists in their quest for truth and justice, ensuring that they can continue to fulfill their crucial role in society.
