Establishing Community Through Journalism

African American newspapers started in 1827 and became more prevalent after the civil war, providing a voice for the voiceless.

Freedom's Journal, The Chicago Defender, The North Star — all of these publications were created for, written for and by African Americans during the 19th century.  

These newspapers were written to establish African American communities and provide an outlet for African Americans to speak for themselves because for so long, their voice was not heard in predominately white circulated newspapers.  

Freedom's Journal — the first Black-owned and operated newspaper — was established in 1827 to help advocate for the abolishment of slavery.