From L-R: Noel Bentley of DePaul NABJ, Myiti Sengstacke Rice of Chicago Defender Charities, Melody Spann-Cooper of WVON, and Naba’a Muhammad of The Final Call (Photo Credit, Marshelle Sanders).
When reflecting on Black journalism, it is vital to recognize the pioneers who paved the way for us to be heard and seen, helping our culture stay informed and navigate life. These trailblazers created influential outlets such as The Freedom’s Journal (early 1800s), The North Star (1847), The Chicago Defender (1905), Associated Negro Press (1919), Atlanta Daily World (1928), Ebony (1945), Jet (1951), WVON (1963), Essence (1970), The Final Call (1979) and many others.
To conclude Black History Month, NABJ-Chicago hosted an influential event in partnership with Flyover at Navy Pier. This dynamic event paid tribute to the significant legacy of the Black press, focusing on the vital contributions of Chicago’s Black-owned media outlets in shaping culture and driving nationwide change.
A Tribute to the Black Press at NABJ-Chicago’s Event
The panel discussion featured notable industry voices, including Melody Spann Cooper, president and CEO of WVON; Myiti Sengstacke Rice, president and CEO of Chicago Defender Charities; and Naba’a Muhammad, editor-in-chief of The Final Call Newspaper. Noel Bentley, president of Depaul NABJ, moderated the event.
The NABJ Chicago chapter gathered to acknowledge the accomplishments of Black journalists and the power of the Black press and discuss the challenges and triumphs of Black media throughout history.
Brandon Pope, president of NABJ Chicago, shared his excitement for the event and the critical conversation that was about to unfold.
He shared the significant contributions of the Black press and media institutions, particularly in the face of current political tensions.
“We wanted to ensure that we honor the Black press, especially in these uncertain times, where we have people from higher positions who say anything in Black culture is undervalued; we can’t have that.”
The Panelists and Their Journey in Black Media
Cooper, of WVON Radio, shared the remarkable history of her family’s involvement in Black media.
She also reflected on how her journey in the media was influenced by her father, Pervis Spann, who founded WVON. This broadcast station became a cultural and political staple in the Black community. “My father went from being a sharecropper to a shareholder,” Cooper stated. Pervis Spann started WVON to give the Black community a voice and control over the narrative of our lives.”
Some of the most passionate topics discussed were Chicago’s rich history of black thought, activism and media. The conversation turned to the long-standing influence of The Chicago Defender, a pioneering black newspaper founded by Robert Sengstacke Abbott.
Sengstacke Rice reflected on her family’s legacy, highlighting her great uncle, Robert Sengstacke Abbott, who founded the Defender in 1905. The newspaper played a pivotal role during the Great Migration, offering a beacon of hope and opportunity to Black Americans moving north. Abbott’s vision created a legacy that significantly influenced American history. Her grandfather, John H.H. Sengstacke, continued that vision, and her father, Robert “Bobby” Abbott Sengstacke, documented the civil rights movement.
Sengstacke Rice continues the tradition, carrying the torch through the Bud Billiken Parade. She explained, “The Defender was more than just a newspaper; it was about helping Black people see themselves in a better light and inspiring them to build better lives (great migration). It was a platform for workforce development long before that term even existed.”
Is Black Media Treated Differently?
The conversation took a reflective turn as Cooper addressed the challenges of Black journalists and media outlets, particularly in a landscape where mainstream outlets often fail to understand or represent Black experiences fully.
“We’re treated differently. We are always the pioneers, and then everyone else jumps on our bandwagon for their civil rights,” Cooper said, calling for greater recognition of the Black media’s contributions to social change.
Muhammad expressed similar sentiments: “We have to keep fighting for our people, even when others don’t understand. This work is not just about jobs or success; it’s about telling our stories, the real stories of Black people, despite what others may think or how they try to undermine us,” he stated, encouraging fellow journalists to remain resolute and continue speaking truth to power.
Challenges and Triumphs of Black-Owned Media Today
According to the panelists, Chicago has always been a place where Black voices are unapologetically heard. “We might be a little scared now, financially,” said Cooper, reflecting on how Black people in Chicago have historically navigated challenges. But we’ve never been afraid to speak our truth.” This boldness is seen in the city’s culture, which refuses to shy away from confronting uncomfortable truths—whether in politics, activism, or journalism.
The importance of holding the media and politicians accountable was also highlighted.
“We haven’t been able to find that fine line of being a capitalist and a crusader,” Cooper said, urging journalists to resist the temptation to prioritize financial gain over their duty to tell the truth.
The Role of Black Media in Politics and Social Change
This notion was reinforced through a discussion about local politics, particularly Mayor Brandon Johnson’s first term and how, despite crime rates falling during his time in office, the narrative surrounding him has often been negative, with opposition questioning his leadership.
“Not long ago, The Chicago Sun-Times ran the headline in the digital ad, saying that the City Council bends the mayor over the budget. There’s been so much pushback against Mayor Johnson, but he’s doing exactly what he was elected to do. He’s bringing crime down and pushing for more sustainable solutions for the city. This, however, has not been translated into widespread support. People say he doesn’t listen but hasn’t even had time to address the issues fully. It’s frustrating to see the lack of understanding about what he’s up against,” Cooper said.
Sengstacke Rice stated, “I think he inherited a lot of stuff from prior mayors. We know he came into a situation, and I don’t think he was prepared to handle everything. I don’t think people gave him a chance to say what he would do about it or do something about it. It’s just automatically, it’s his fault.”
How Can Black Communities Support Black Media?
The conversation also touched on the challenges Black media creators face, specifically how difficult it is to garner support for Black events.
One attendee asked how to encourage more Black people to attend events focused on Black excellence, given that parties often draw larger crowds than serious discussions or initiatives.
Sengstacke-Rice responded by suggesting a return to collective action and organizing. “COVID compelled us to come back together. We need to support each other—when one of us does something great, we all need to show up.”
Advice for the Next Generation of Journalists
As the discussion moved towards solutions for the future, panelists shared their advice for those trying to make a difference in their respective fields. “Lean into your passion,” Sengstacke Rice suggested. “When you remember why you’re doing what you do, it’s easier to push through the tough times.”
“Keep young people around,” Cooper advised. “Internships and mentorships are essential for the survival of any industry.”
Muhammad was asked to share something uplifting to inspire attendees in the coming week. One speaker said, “Master your craft. Build something for yourself. And most importantly, love yourself.”
“We have to continue honoring our past but also make sure we are investing in our future,” said Bentley (moderator), encouraging young journalists to learn their craft and strive for excellence.
Final Thoughts: The Power of Black Media in the Future
The conversation ended on a powerful note: “Ultimately, we black people will win. I believe that with all my heart,” Cooper stated. “The power is ours to claim, and we can’t let go of it. We are on the right path.”
About Post Author
Marshelle Sanders
Marshelle R. Sanders is a reporter for The Chicago Defender with deep roots in Chicago, IL, and the nearby suburb of Bellwood, IL. Her journalism has been featured in esteemed publications such as Felix Magazine and Eventnoire. In addition to her reporting, Marshelle is an influencer behind “The Beverage Library,” a brand that combines her passions for beverages and books to promote a relaxed social lifestyle. She is also a skilled mixologist. Marshelle holds degrees from Triton College and Governors State University.
