The connection between the Black Press and the Black Church began with the birth of the first Black Newspaper, Freedom’s Journal on March 16. Considering the challenges the Black community continues to face, the partnership between the two is vital.
Throughout history, the Black Press and the Black Church have shared an unbreakable bond— uplifting, engaging, informing and empowering our communities. The Black Press has played an indispensable role in capturing and chronicling the events that have shaped our history.
Without the perseverance of the Black Press, much of our people’s stories would have been lost.
The Black Press has always been relied upon for covering and conveying news in the Black Community, which often goes unacknowledged in mainstream media. In this moment, as we face challenges such as the loss of print advertising and sponsorship dollars and the additional impact of the Canadian tariffs on rising printing costs, the Black Press needs your support more than ever.
On March 16th, Black Press Day, we ask you to pray collectively and individually for the Black Press in your church services. We are facing unprecedented challenges, and together we must confront the threats against our community and the media. Your prayers will be a powerful way to lift us up as we continue the fight for justice and equity.
Like many other media outlets, The Black Press is transitioning to online and digital platforms, which is crucial for maintaining our reach and ensuring our voices are heard. So, I’m asking you and your church members, friends, family members and colleagues to sign up for the Defender newsletters. There is no cost to sign up, but contributions are also welcome.
Through this simple act, we will keep you informed about news that often goes unreported by larger news outlets. By joining our newsletter, our award-winning team of journalists will educate and empower you with the news and stories that matter most to our community.
Thank you for your support. Together, we can continue to elevate our people’s voices and stories.
In faith and service,
Sonceria “Sonny” Messiah Jiles
Publisher and CEO
