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The Truth Is Under Attack

December 19, 2025

The Black Press of America, which has documented Black life and exposed injustices for nearly two centuries, is facing an existential financial crisis due to deliberate economic starvation. The article argues that policies under the Trump administration, particularly those dismantling diversity, equity, and inclusion programs, have caused corporate advertisers, foundations, and partners to withdraw support from Black media institutions. Simultaneously, the federal government has placed Black history under review, removing references to Black historical figures from websites and scrutinizing institutions like the National Museum of African American History and Culture.

Who is affected

  • The Black Press of America and its journalists (some working without pay)
  • The National Newspaper Publishers Association and its 235+ member Black-owned newspapers
  • More than 20 million digital readers and 22 million print readers served weekly by Black newspapers
  • Black Americans whose history and voices are being erased from public institutions
  • Civil rights attorney Ben Crump (quoted in the article)
  • Mississippi Democratic Rep. Bennie Thompson (quoted in the article)
  • Visitors to national parks who previously had free admission on Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Juneteenth
  • The National Museum of African American History and Culture (placed under scrutiny)

What action is being taken

  • Journalists are working without pay to keep newsrooms operational
  • Members of Congress are issuing warnings about the administration's actions
  • The article itself is making a direct appeal for financial support to the Black Press

Why it matters

  • This matters because the Black Press has served as the primary institution documenting Black life, exposing injustices, and telling truths that mainstream media has historically ignored for nearly 200 years. The simultaneous economic strangling of Black media institutions and federal erasure of Black history from public spaces represents a coordinated effort to silence Black voices and control historical narratives. If the Black Press collapses, there will be no alternative institution to tell these stories, resulting in a permanent gap in truth-telling and accountability. The survival of independent Black journalism is essential for preserving accurate historical records and providing platforms for Black communities to share their experiences and perspectives.

What's next

  • The article demands immediate financial support for the Black Press but does not specify concrete organizational next steps, fundraising campaigns, or legislative actions beyond the general call for money.

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint

The Truth Is Under Attack