The Black Wall Street Times has received grants from the following local and national philanthropic partners: George Kaiser Family Foundation, Charles and Lynn Schusterman Family Foundation, Borealis Philanthropy’s Racial Equity in Journalism Fund, Kauffman Family Foundation, Lobeck Taylor Family Foundation, the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, and Pen America. We also receive donations from generous individual donors.
Donating to Black newsrooms is crucial for amplifying diverse voices, ensuring accurate representation, and promoting stories that reflect the experiences and issues of Black communities. These contributions help sustain independent journalism, support investigative reporting, and foster a more inclusive media landscape.
Donate to The Black Wall Street Times
A Legacy of Resilience: How Black Media Shaped the Fight for Justice
Black media in the United States has a rich history that dates back to the early 19th century. It began with the establishment of the first Black newspaper, Freedom’s Journal, in 1827 by Samuel Cornish and John Russwurm. This publication was created to counteract the racist narratives of mainstream media and provide a platform for Black voices, addressing issues such as abolition, civil rights, and the injustices faced by African Americans.
Throughout the years, Black media has played a crucial role in advocating for civil rights and social justice. During the 20th century, newspapers like the Chicago Defender and the Pittsburgh Courier were instrumental in promoting the Great Migration and rallying support for anti-lynching legislation. In the 1960s, the Black press was at the forefront of covering the Civil Rights Movement, often highlighting stories that mainstream media overlooked or misrepresented.
Today, Black media continues to be vital in amplifying the voices and experiences of Black communities. It provides a platform for diverse perspectives, addresses systemic racism, and empowers Black audiences by sharing their stories and achievements. In an era where media representation significantly impacts public perception and policy, supporting Black media is essential for fostering a more equitable and inclusive society. We’re thankful to our philanthropic partners for their continued support of this platform.