I was at a park on Saturday, March 15, 2025, when I received an email blocking me and hundreds of Voice of America (VOA) journalists from the newsroom. It was a dark day for journalism.
This year would have marked my 16th year with the agency, serving a mission I deeply believed in: delivering factual, balanced, and comprehensive journalism. I reported on U.S. news for Indonesian audiences, helping them understand America and showing what press freedom looks like. I also reviewed VOA journalists’ content, ensuring it met the highest journalistic standards. No one is doing that work now.
Since that Saturday morning, my life has felt like a rollercoaster. I received two layoff notices before being placed back on leave. All I want is to return to work and support VOA in telling America’s stories to the world. I know this is a chapter I must go through. One day, I will look back at this painting and say, “You made it through.”
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