Society of Professional Journalists honors SF Bay View Executive Editor Kevin Epps with Silver Heart Award

November 3, 2025

The Society of Professional Journalists' Northern California chapter has selected Kevin Epps, Executive Editor of the San Francisco Bay View National Black Newspaper, to receive the Silver Heart Award at their 40th Annual Excellence in Journalism Awards ceremony. Epps is being recognized for rescuing the Bay Area's last Black-owned newspaper from potential closure by modernizing its operations, introducing digital innovation and multimedia storytelling, and reconnecting it with the community it serves. Beyond his editorial work, Epps has created impactful documentary films like "Straight Outta Hunters Point" and serves as a mentor to emerging writers and artists.

Who is affected

Kevin Epps (Executive Editor receiving the Silver Heart Award)
San Francisco Bay View National Black Newspaper (the publication being preserved)
The newsroom staff of the Bay View
Young writers and artists mentored by Epps
The Black community in San Francisco and the Bay Area served by the newspaper
Society of Professional Journalists, Northern California chapter (presenting organization)
Readers and supporters of the Bay View newspaper

What action is being taken

The Society of Professional Journalists, Northern California chapter, is presenting its 40th Annual Excellence in Journalism Awards at a ceremony scheduled for November 13, 2025. The Bay View is inviting readers and friends to attend the ceremony and tickets are being sold, with early bird pricing available through November 5.

Why it matters

This recognition matters because it honors the preservation of one of the Bay Area's last Black-owned newspapers, which serves as a vital platform for amplifying voices often ignored in mainstream media. Epps's work ensures the continuation of an important institution that provides truth and representation for the Black community in San Francisco, while his mentorship efforts help sustain the future of diverse journalism. The award acknowledges the critical role of independent Black media in maintaining free speech and serving communities that might otherwise lack dedicated news coverage.

What's next

The awards ceremony will be held on Thursday, November 13, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. at the Ruth Williams Opera House, 4705 Third Street in San Francisco. Tickets can be purchased online with early bird pricing available through Wednesday, November 5.

Read full article from source: San Francisco Bay View National Black Newspaper