When I attended Grand View College (now Grand View University) in the late 1990s, I didn't know I'd one day become the founder of a statewide Black newspaper. Black Iowa News has been around since May 2020, but the quarterly Black Iowa Newspaper debuted in June of 2023. It’s now located in nearly 100 locations and two dozen cities. Now that the adrenaline is fading, I want to take a moment to thank my supporters and discuss our ongoing needs.
First, I am amazed and grateful for everyone who has been involved with Black Iowa News — from readers, advertisers, freelancers, financial supporters, et. al. I thank you for your letters, emails, kind words, and the two people who have tucked 10 dollars each into my hand during the events I've covered. Acknowledging the inherent challenges, you have encouraged me to keep going with your words and kind acts.
Running a newspaper is a big and expensive undertaking. From printing, mailing and driving around the state, to writing, production and strategy, the workload is enormous. Other news organizations have teams, huge grants and big sponsors. We have us — and you.
Here’s the staff:
Dana James, founder & publisher, writer, delivery driver, sales, layout and graphic design, strategist, fact checker, podcast host, photographer, bookkeeper, social media maven, lead worrywart and cheer captain
Shimae Obie, news assistant, delivery driver and occasional reporter/photographer
Occasional columnists, Shade Burgs, Mattilyn Scott, Courageous Fire, Tony Wilson and Debra Carr
Editing, Obie, Camille Boone-Harrison, Chris Harrison (also occasional graphic design) and Audrey Burgs
And, there are several others I haven’t named whose help is invaluable. ❤️❤️
Maintaining sustainable local journalism dominates industry discussions, and Black Iowa News shares these concerns and strives to be sustainable, while putting in constant work to highlight Black perspectives, showcase the Black community and amplify the voices of Black Iowans. Check out BlackIowaNews.com.
With ongoing financial help, Black Iowa News can continue showing up in cities across the state, doing what we can to highlight Black Iowans, holding the powers that be to account and giving people their flowers (recognition) today. And, we must remain independent so we can say what needs to be said. Period.
Thank you for everything. ❤️
If you have time, take a quick poll and share your thoughts about what Black Iowa News should prioritize in the new year. Also, email me story ideas. And, advertise, advertise, advertise. The deadline to advertise in the February newspaper is JAN. 15.
Have a blessed holiday and Happy New Year,
Dana James