The Country Music Association is asking reporters to steer their coverage of the upcoming awards show away from politics.
In a document sent to press outlining media guidelines for the 51st Annual CMA Awards, the event’s organizers warn journalists that they could have their credentials revoked if they discuss the Las Vegas mass shooting, gun rights or political affiliations in their coverage. The memo was first reported by Nashville Scene.
“In light of recent events, and out of respect for the artists directly or indirectly involved, please refrain from focusing your coverage of the CMA Awards Red Carpet and Backstage Media Center on the Las Vegas tragedy, gun rights, political affiliations or topics of the like,” the memo reads. {mosads}
“It’s vital, more so this year than in year’s past due to the sensitivities at hand, that the CMA Awards be a celebration of Country Music and the artists that make this genre so great,” the memo continues. “If you are reported as straying from these guidelines, your credential will be reviewed and potentially revoked via security escort.”
The guidelines come just weeks after a gunman killed nearly 60 people and injured hundreds more when he opened fire on the audience at the Route 91 Harvest Festival, a country music festival. The shooting began when country music star Jason Aldean was performing.