Happy 50th Anniversary NABJ
Dear NABJ Family,
Today, we mark 50 years of the National Association of Black Journalists — half a century of insisting on our right to be seen, heard, and valued in American media.
When our founders came together on December 12, 1975, they weren’t simply forming an organization. They were launching a movement — one rooted in accountability, representation, and the radical idea that Black journalists not only belonged in the newsroom, but that our presence made the press better.
For fifty years, NABJ has carried that mandate forward.
We have told the stories others overlooked.
We have expanded who is considered newsworthy.
We have defended democracy by defending the truth.
And we have done it while navigating an industry where our voices have too often been questioned, sidelined, or targeted.
This anniversary arrives at a moment when the stakes feel strikingly familiar — and unmistakably high.
Across the country, Black journalists are facing political retaliation, newsroom setbacks, and the rolling back of diversity efforts that were already too fragile. The truth and press freedom are under attack. History is being rewritten in real time. And communities that rely on us — especially Black communities — are being told to trust less and fear more.
That is why this anniversary cannot simply be a celebration.
It is a call to arms.
NABJ was built for moments like this.
And as we begin our next 50 years, we will meet the moment with clarity, courage, and a commitment to our mission that does not waver.
We will advocate fiercely for our members.
We will protect press freedom at every turn.
We will challenge attempts to silence or sideline Black voices.
We will strengthen our pipeline, our chapters, and our partnerships.
And we will continue leading — because our industry needs our leadership now more than ever.
Our founders gave us a blueprint.
Our history gives us strength.
Our future demands boldness.
Here’s to the next 50 years of NABJ — still powerful, still necessary, still shaping the story of America. The truth endures, and so do we.
With gratitude and purpose,
Errin Haines
President, National Association of Black Journalists
Rod Carter
Chair, 50th Anniversary Committee
