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Event Called Off After Increasing Threats Against Celebrated Cartoonist Over Controversial Texas Flood Comment

Buffalo Newspaper Guild Postpones Event Following Threats

The Buffalo Newspaper Guild announced on Thursday that it has postponed a Happy Hour event scheduled at the Buffalo History Museum. This decision was prompted by a “death threat” directed at cartoonists featured in the museum’s exhibits.

The guild confirmed that they decided to postpone the event citing “serious concerns about public safety and direct threats that have ensured intervention by the Buffalo Police.” This announcement comes on the heels of backlash against cartoonist Adam Zyglis from Buffalo News, following a comic he shared on Instagram that seemingly mocked victims of a tragic flash flood in Texas.

Zyglis’ cartoon depicts a man wearing a MAGA hat being swept away, holding a sign that reads “Help.” The portrayal, which sparked significant criticism, was also published in the opinion section of the newspaper. Zyglis captioned his Instagram post, “Tomorrow’s Line… That discussion has become a moment.”

The guild expressed that the intention behind the event was to promote community safety and support for journalism amidst growing pressures on news organizations, particularly in Western New York. However, they reported that public backlash over Zyglis’ cartoon has resulted in a series of threatening messages towards him and his family.

They emphasized, “We will twist positive public events, silence Zyglis with fear, and completely denounce individuals attempting to intimidate journalists and their supporters.” Zyglis also spoke out about the situation on Instagram, stating that threats to him and his family are not an acceptable reaction to artistic critique.

As of Friday afternoon, reports indicated that over 170 individuals remained unaccounted for, with at least 121 confirmed dead due to the flash floods devastating central Texas.

New York Democrat Tim Kennedy commented on the guild’s announcement, asserting that freedom of the press is essential to democracy. He expressed his thoughts for Zyglis, acknowledging that his art inspires and questions important issues.

Meanwhile, Erie County GOP Chairman Michael Cracker voiced his opinion on social media, agreeing that freedom of press and speech are crucial to democracy. However, he criticized the response to Zyglis’ work, stating it was disappointing that the focus was on the cartoonists rather than on the content’s insensitivity towards flood victims.

Cracker further stated, “While we can denounce the Buffalo News for their choice to publish such ill-timed cartoons, it should be done with respect and empathy—qualities the publication itself seems to have overlooked.”

No immediate comments were received from the Buffalo Newspaper Guild or Zyglis following the unfolding events.