When word got around that the National Association of Black Journalists had invited the Republican Party’s presidential nominee to its annual convention, things got bad for the 48-year-old organization pretty fast. Some members refused to attend, others dropped out of roles on panel discussions and the convention’s co-chair resigned. On social media, African American journalists expressed their outrage and disdain.

“While NABJ does not endorse political candidates as a journalism organization, we understand the serious work of our members, and welcome the opportunity for them to ask the tough questions that will provide the truthful answers Black Americans want and need to know,” NABJ President Ken Lemon wrote on the association’s website.

A day after the Chicago interview, we’re still waiting for answers from the former president.

Instead of responding to queries from the three black female journalists on the panel, he disrespected them, talked over them and questioned their legitimacy. After taking the stage late, he used much of the time he was given to disparage the record and reputation of another black woman, the presumptive Democratic nominee, Kamala Harris.

I’m not sure why the organizers didn’t see this coming. This is a man who has the opposite of the midas touch and taints everything that he’s allowed to get his hands on. On their website, the NABJ found it necessary to explain that they hadn’t been paid off to give the convicted felon and presidential candidate a platform at their convention. Not a good position to be in.

While providing a platform for diverse voices is crucial, it’s also important to consider the consequences of giving airtime to those who have repeatedly shown disrespect for journalists and Black folk in general. Don’t invite people over that will wipe their feet on the carpet and expect a full tour.

It appears there needs to be some serious discussions about leadership at NABJ. Fortunately, many of the members are all under one roof until Aug. 4, so maybe there can be some real talk about the direction of the organization.