The End of Black History Month: Remembering Black Journalists in America

For many years, Black American journalists have shed light on the Black experience, addressed social injustices, such as racism and systematic oppression, and given a voice to communities often overlooked by mainstream media. Journalists today, such as editors of newspapers and even our own students in The Sabre, take inspiration from these men and women who used their writing to make a difference.

The community of Black journalists is extremely vast, and continues to grow today. In honor of Black History Month, we can pay tribute to a few of the outstanding Black journalists throughout American history.

• Ida B. Wells (1862–1931)—Known for her work during the early years of the Civil Rights Movement, Wells utilized investigative journalism as her main tactic when advocating for the rights of Black Americans.
• Max Robinson (1939-1988)—Robinson was the first African American to anchor a major news program, which challenged racial stereotypes in television and broadcasting.
• Ethel Payne (1911-1991)—Often called the “First Lady of the Black Press,” Payne is a journalist who covered the Montgomery Bus Boycott, the Nigerian Civil War, the Vietnam War, and other conflicts. She also became the first Black woman commentator on a national news network. Payne fought for social justice and worked against systematic racism.
• Gordon Parks (1912-2006)—Parks and his photojournalism focuses on and challenges civil rights issues in urban areas. He told his story and advocated both on the page and in pictures.
• Amanda Gorman (1998-)—Although part of America’s current story, Gorman has been incredibly influential in her 26 years of life. One of her most famous poems, The Hill We Climb, which she recited at President Biden’s inauguration, calls for unity in a racially divided society. Many young girls look to Gorman as an inspiration for change and success.

Every journalist, living or alive, used their work for advocacy and fought for racial equality, especially during times like the Civil Rights Movement and World Wars. These Black American journalists and their influence must not be overlooked, because these poems and articles and stories shaped American history, especially for the Black community. As Black History Month comes to an end, the remembrance of these prominent journalists must continue daily.