Seen, Heard, Respected: The Importance of Black Media

Dear Black Media, We Are the Blueprint!

We are valuable. We are necessary. We are important to the culture.

Our stories matter, and they deserve attention, investment, and protection. We are not an afterthought or a niche; we are the blueprint. When we tell our own stories, we preserve our truth, our history, and our power. Black media is not optional. It is essential.

We are living in strange times. Our platforms are being silenced; certain words can have your page flagged or shadow-banned. Professional journalists are being arrested and charged with crimes for simply exercising their First Amendment right to a free press. Ironically, the president labels every report that doesn’t bow to inhumane policies as "fake news."

This week, I had the honor of being a guest on WURD, a progressive Black news radio show based in Philadelphia. The station, which has been in operation for over two decades, is hosting a radiothon to support independent Black media. They are working to keep the lights on and continue shining a necessary light on stories that matter to us—especially within our current political climate.

Politics can be boring and sometimes confusing. But as many have said, at "this big age," if you don’t think politics will affect you or someone you love, you need to have several seats and grow up expeditiously.

WURD sent over some questions that time didn’t allow us to cover during the broadcast. Let’s break down why Black media and politics are more important than ever.

In today’s political climate, why is consuming and supporting Black media vital?

It matters because when we have people who look like us and understand us, it allows us to be celebrated in ways only we truly comprehend. It’s the energy of a Black woman shouting "Yesss!" about hair or a Black man nodding in agreement.

Black media prevents harmful narratives—like reporters telling Zendaya her locs make her look like she smells like patchouli oil and weed, or commentators like Megyn Kelly criticizing Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl performance, or journalists expressing outrage that Halle Bailey played The Little Mermaid. Representation matters, and Black media ensures we are seen and respected.

How does Black media shape our understanding of politics and social justice?

Black media plays a major role because we ensure our people are informed without using jargon that doesn't make sense. We break things down in relatable ways. Think of creators like Kita Rose or Kenneth Walden, who explain politics in a comedic, raw, and fun way that actually makes you want to pay attention. Black media doesn’t just report; it educates in a way that resonates with our lived experiences.

What does it truly mean to "support" Black media economically and politically?

Without support, Black media cannot generate revenue, which leads to job losses. We see this with the number of Black women journalists losing their positions. Without them, who tells the real stories?

It is vital for celebrities and influencers to intentionally work with Black outlets, not just major networks with deep pockets. It matters politically, too. Without voices like Angela Rye or Roland Martin, how would we know what’s happening in Texas with Jasmine Crockett or about Black governors and lawmakers across the country? Support means being intentional.

I challenge everyone to be proactive: hire a Black publicist, break news with Black outlets, speak with Black media on the red carpet, and demand that Black media be included at major events. Being seen, being understood, and having your story authentically presented matters. Stick with Black media!

Click to listen to my episode on SoundCloud!