Black Press Day 2023: Date, History, Facts about Douglass

Black Press Day is observed annually on March 16. It commemorates the 1827 release of the first Black newspaper, “Freedom’s Journal,” in New York City. Since then, Black publishers, writers, photographers, and editors have spoken out against prejudice for nearly two centuries. They are distinct organizations united by a common goal: the unequivocal documentation of the Black experience. When Black citizens had no voice, the crusading Black Press laid the groundwork for significant voting rights, desegregation, and civil rights legislation. The Black Press endeavored to unite, enlighten, motivate, and elevate a disenfranchised community. Today, we honor the extraordinary individuals who revolutionized journalism. Their legacy is enduring and pertinent, particularly when news channels propagate singular narratives and ideas of the ‘other.’

The background of Black Press Day

In 1827, a gathering of notable African Americans took place at the residence of Bostin Crummell. Their goal was to discuss ways to amplify the numerous socioeconomic and political challenges confronted by Black communities in the United States. Prior to that time, the collective Black expression was expressed through the church or other social organizations. It was evident that this was insufficient, and that systemic discrimination required larger platforms to promote enduring change. However, these platforms were inaccessible to Black citizens. There was no access to the media or newspapers for black communities. Some elements of the established press routinely attacked and denigrated African Americans in print. significant newspapers refused to publish Black obituaries, let alone significant community-affecting news. The public media questioned the integrity of a race without providing its members with a voice or the opportunity to communicate for themselves.

Reverend Samuel Cornish and John Russwurm founded “Freedom’s Journal” on March 16, 1827, the first newspaper published by African-Americans. The first issue of the newspaper outlined its mission: “Too long have others spoken for us…We wish to advocate for ourselves.” It marked the start of monumental transformation. By the time of the Civil War, forty Black newspapers were in circulation. During the 1920s and 1930s, when major newspapers ignored Black realities, the Black Press stood up and then some. Non-discriminatory employment openings were advertised in black-owned publications. The newspapers quickly became outlets for expression, with athletics, politics, and financial news reflecting the viewpoints of Black readers.

In addition, the society columns published uplifting, dignified accounts of prosperous African Americans leading fulfilling lives. In vitriolic editorials, voting rights, fair employment, housing, and quality institutions were defended. These demands would eventually pave the way for school desegregation, the 1957 Voting Rights Act, and the 1964 Civil Rights Act. The Black Press has published the works of America’s foremost activists, including W.E.B. DuBois, Zora Neale Hurston, Langston Hughes, Frederick Douglass, and Ida B. Wells Barnett, over the years. In 1941, 22 publications came together to establish the National Negro Publishers Association. (N.N.P.A.). Today, the N.N.P.A., which is now known as the National Newspaper Publishers Association, consists of more than 200 Black publications in the United States and the Virgin Islands.

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5 FREDERICK DOUGLASS facts that will blow your mind

To acquire how to read, a young Douglass bartered bread with white children in his neighborhood.

Years after his escape, Douglass founded a publication called “The North Star” and wrote a seminal article addressed to Thomas Auld, a former owner.

Douglass had more portraits than 19th century luminaries Walt Whitman and Abraham Lincoln.

Douglass saw no reason to exult until all of his people were granted their freedom.

Douglass was nominated as the Equal Rights Party’s vice presidential candidate in 1872, with Victoria Woodhull as the first-ever female presidential candidate.

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BLACK PRESS DAY DATES