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90 years of continuing publication have only strengthened its unwavering commitment to truth
In the heart of the Great Depression, amidst the economic turmoil and the harsh realities of Jim Crow segregation, a beacon of hope and truth emerged in the Twin Cities. Founded in 1934 by Cecil E. Newman, the Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder (MSR) wasn’t just another newspaper; it was a lifeline, a platform, and a voice for the Black community in Minnesota. Its genesis, born from a relentless fight for equality and justice, laid the foundation for a legacy that resonates today.
Newman, a man of unwavering conviction and commitment, saw the need for a publication that would illuminate the struggles and triumphs of Black Minnesotans. With its bold headlines and powerful editorial stance, the MSR became a crucial source of information, a platform for activism, and a champion for social justice.
The paper’s early years were marked by a fierce spirit of resistance. Newman, the editor and publisher, fearlessly tackled issues like racial discrimination, segregation, and lack of opportunity. His editorials were fiery and passionate, sparking conversations and challenging the status quo. This stark commitment to truth and justice drew in a talented pool of writers and journalists eager to use their skills to effect change.
One such talent was Carl Rowan, whose writing resonated with brilliance and passion. The MSR became Rowan’s launching pad, nurturing his journalistic skills before he went on to write for the Minneapolis Tribune, serve as an ambassador to Finland, and later as the director of the United States Information Agency under President Lyndon B. Johnson.
The MSR’s pages also featured the early works of Gordon Parks, a visionary artist whose talent spanned photography, writing, directing and filmmaking. His powerful images and insightful stories provided a glimpse into the lives of Black Americans during a turbulent era. Later, Parks became the first Black director to work for major Hollywood studios.
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Another significant figure in the MSR’s early years was Era Bell Thompson, a gifted writer and editor who joined the paper in 1942. She rose through the ranks, becoming managing editor and later the international editor for Ebony Magazine. Thompson’s contributions to journalism were invaluable. She chronicled the stories of Black Americans and showcased their resilience in the face of adversity.
Throughout its history, the MSR has witnessed the changing landscape of the Black community in Minnesota. It documented the triumphs of the Civil Rights Movement, the struggles of the Black Power era, and the continuing fight for equality in education, housing and employment. It has been a platform for community leaders, activists, and everyday citizens to share their stories, express their concerns, and advocate for positive change.
Today, the MSR remains a vital resource for the Black community. Its pages are filled with stories that reflect the rich tapestry of Black life, from local news and events to national and international issues. The paper remains a champion for social justice, using its voice to advocate for equality and opportunity for all.
The Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder, born out of the ashes of the Great Depression, has become an enduring symbol of resilience, hope, and unwavering commitment to truth. Its legacy, built on the shoulders of trailblazers like Cecil E. Newman, Launa Q. Newman, Carl Rowan, Gordon Parks, Era Bell Thompson, and now granddaughter Tracey Williams-Dillard, continues to inspire generations of journalists, activists, and community members. It is a testament to the power of the written word and the unyielding spirit of a community that refused to be silenced.
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