Publisher/CEO Tracey Williams-Dillard (second from left) accepts MSR’s award. Also pictured from left to right are Bobby R. Henry, Sr., chair, NNPA publisher, Westside Gazette; Karen Carter Richards, CEO /publisher, Houston Forward Times, NNPAF chair; and Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr., NNPA president/CEO. 
The first of many – MSR NNPA Award Certificate Credit: Photo by Kimerlie Geraci
The Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder (MSR), a cornerstone of the Twin Cities Black community for nearly a century, has once again demonstrated its commitment to impactful journalism. At the prestigious National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) Messenger Awards 2024, held in Baltimore, the MSR proudly claimed first place in the Faith & Religion category.
This accolade, awarded for Associate Editor Abdi Mohamed’s insightful article on the spiritually based non-profit ARAHA, stands as a powerful testament to the MSR’s dedication to showcasing the stories that matter most to its readership and the collective pride of the Black community in this achievement.
Tracey Williams-Dillard, a third-generation publisher carrying the legacy of her grandfather, Cecil E. Newman, who founded the Minneapolis Spokesman and St. Paul Recorder in 1934, was present to receive the award. “This award reflects the tireless work and dedication my team pours into every story,” she shared, emphasizing the MSR’s commitment to covering topics that deeply resonate with its community. “This win is a testament to our focus on delivering relevant and impactful journalism.”
The article, which delved into ARAHA’s crucial work supporting Somali and Muslim communities in the U.S. and East African countries, struck a chord with the judging panel, earning the highest score in the Faith & Religion category. The award criteria, which included layout, photography, extensiveness, variety of local coverage, and comprehensiveness of stories, underscored the MSR’s skill in crafting compelling narratives that deeply touch the reader.
Less than two months from the MSR’s 90th anniversary, Williams-Dillard expressed profound pride in her team, recognizing their unwavering commitment to excellence. “This recognition serves as a driving force for us to continue pursuing excellence in everything we do,” she affirmed, adding that this win fuels a desire for continued success in future awards. “It’s beautiful to see our talented journalists and the MSR be recognized nationally.”
The MSR’s win at the NNPA Messenger Awards is a testament to journalistic skill and reflects the publication’s unwavering commitment to its community. Since its inception, the MSR has been a steadfast voice for the Black community, advocating for social justice, amplifying marginalized voices, and providing a platform for critical conversations that shape the future of the Twin Cities.
This latest award underscores the enduring legacy of the MSR, a legacy built upon a deep understanding of its community, a passion for storytelling, and an unwavering dedication to journalistic integrity.
As the MSR continues to evolve and adapt to the changing media landscape, this award is a powerful reminder of its enduring relevance and impact. The publication’s unwavering commitment to its mission and dedication to impactful storytelling, particularly for the Twin Cities Black community, ensures that the MSR will continue to play a vital role in the community’s fabric for future generations.