NPR memo to stations: why we fired Juan Williams

From LAObserved:

NPR president Vivian Schiller’s note to stations says that the network had been concerned about commentator Juan Williams’ positions before he said on Fox News that the sight of airline passengers in Muslim dress makes him a little nervous.

  Sent: Thursday, October 21, 2010 12:05 PM Subject: Juan Williams

  Dear AREPS,

  Thank you for all of your varying feedback on the Juan Williams situation. Let me offer some further clarification about why we terminated his contract early.

  First, a critical distinction has been lost in this debate. NPR News analysts have a distinctive role and set of responsibilities. This is a very different role than that of a commentator or columnist. News analysts may not take personal public positions on controversial issues; doing so undermines their credibility as analysts, and that’s what’s happened in this situation. As you all well know, we offer views of all kinds on your air every day, but those views are expressed by those we interview – not our reporters and analysts.

  Second, this isn’t the first time we have had serious concerns about some of Juan’s public comments. Despite many conversations and warnings over the years, Juan has continued to violate this principal.

Read more at LAObserved.com.