By: Erin Slaughter
The National Association of Black Journalists marks its 50th anniversary on December 12, 2025, celebrating half a century of supporting Black journalists, promoting newsroom diversity, and highlighting communities often underrepresented in the media.
Over the past five decades, NABJ has played a central role in shaping American journalism, giving Black journalists a platform to tell important stories and influence how newsrooms operate nationwide.
Since its founding, the organization has worked to expand professional opportunities and strengthen the voices of journalists of color.
NABJ was founded on December 12, 1975, in Washington, D.C., by 44 journalists who recognized the need for support and advocacy at a time when many newsrooms lacked racial diversity. The organization was created to provide professional development, networking, and guidance for Black journalists navigating an industry where resources and representation were limited.
Over the decades, NABJ has grown into one of the largest association of journalists of color in the United States. Its membership includes seasoned professionals, students, and media practitioners across print, broadcast, and digital platforms.
The organization has consistently offered programs that foster professional growth and emphasize the importance of fair and accurate reporting on Black communities.
A cornerstone of NABJ’s work is investing in the next generation of journalists. Scholarships, internships, and fellowships are offered each year to help students and early-career professionals develop essential skills.
Mentorship programs and technical training sessions connect emerging talent with experienced journalists, providing guidance and hands-on knowledge to help shape successful media careers.
Local NABJ chapters across the country support the national organization’s mission by addressing regional needs. Chapters offer scholarships, training, and community outreach initiatives, creating additional opportunities for journalists of color and strengthening representation in local newsrooms.
These chapters play a critical role in fostering grassroots support and engagement for aspiring media professionals.
Although the 50th anniversary gala originally planned for December 2025 has been postponed due to scheduling considerations, NABJ has already marked the milestone with special programming, including the 2025 convention in Cleveland.
Commemorative events throughout the year celebrate the organization’s history, impact, and ongoing mission.Looking ahead, NABJ remains committed to promoting newsroom diversity, advancing journalistic excellence, and empowering Black journalists to tell stories that matter.
As it celebrates this landmark anniversary, the association continues to support professional growth, strengthen media representation, and advocate for fairness and equity in journalism nationwide. The next 50 years promise to expand NABJ’s influence even further, ensuring that Black voices remain integral to the future of American journalism.
This milestone not only celebrates NABJ’s remarkable past but also reaffirms its role as a driving force in shaping the future of journalism, empowering Black voices to lead, challenge, and inspire the next generation of storytellers while ensuring that media across the nation reflects the diversity, equity, and truth that every community deserves.
