Feb 16, 2021
In the aftermath of last summer’s racial unrest and the recent election results in Georgia, understanding the African American news audience is more crucial than ever. The Black Press, which has been a key news and information outlet in America for nearly 200 years, is once again being rediscovered as an essential partner for professional communicators. Jeff attended a PRSA Maryland webinar on the topic and shares what he heard from panelists Dr. Frances “Toni” Draper, CEO/Publisher, AFRO American Newspapers; Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr., President and CEO, National Newspaper Publishers Association, the trade association for 230 of America’s Black-owned media companies; and Joy Bramble, publisher of the Baltimore Times. The panelists agreed on a call to action for the PR and advertising industry: contact the Black press to discuss your clients’ needs and work together on a program to move the needle so there is true equality and a win-win for all. Become aware of their history and role in the community. Subscribe to and read the newspapers and make them part of your media plans.