The Power of the Press
The first African American newspaper, Freedom’s Journal, was published in 1827. Ever since, African Americans have used the press to establish an independent voice for Black communities and advance the struggle for freedom and equality. Publishers and journalists challenged racism by exposing injustice, reporting on civil rights activism, and presenting positive images of Black identity and achievement. Black newspapers served local as well as regional and national audiences, helping to foster a sense of community and shared interests among African Americans living in different areas of the country. Publications also reflected the diversity of Black people in the United States and throughout the diaspora. Through a wide range of subjects—political issues, society news, arts and culture, religion, business, travel, and more—the Black press captured and reflected the aspirations, struggles, triumphs, and everyday experiences of Black America.
The Power of the Press: Resources

NMAAHC Collection Search
Search the Museum’s online collection for items related to the history of publishing and the Black press

National Newspaper Publishers Association
Trade association of the more than 200 African American-owned community newspapers from around the U.S. and producer of the BlackPressUSA Network

Black Press Research Collective
Digital scholarship and archival resources relating to the historical and contemporary role of Black newspapers in African Diasporic communities

Black Quotidian
Digital humanities project by scholar Matthew F. Delmont explores the history of daily life in the 20th century through the lens of the Black press