A Special View From A Pew: The Black Church and The Black Press…Trusted Voices in a Time of Decision

For over two centuries, two institutions have stood as the beating heart of Black America—the Black church and the Black press. Born out of necessity, they have been our shield against false narratives, our megaphone for truth, and our rallying point for justice.

During slavery, when enslaved men and women gathered in what was known as the “invisible church,” the sanctuary became more than worship—it became communication, strategy, and hope. After emancipation, those same churches birthed schools, spread knowledge, and prepared our people for the future. And in every movement for justice—from the Civil Rights era to today—pastors and churches have carried the weight of leadership, mobilizing their congregations to demand change.

Likewise, the Black press was born because the mainstream press refused to tell our story. In 1827, Freedom’s Journal declared its mission was to “plead our own cause.” Ever since, Black newspapers have been the voice that tells the truth others won’t, exposing lynchings when others looked away, reporting on racism when others denied it, and celebrating our culture when others dismissed it. The Black press has always been more than ink on paper—it has been the record of our dignity, our struggle, and our triumph.

Today, our two institutions remain essential. Studies show that Black media still provides more coverage of health disparities, racism, and voting access than mainstream outlets. And in every Black church across America, people still lean forward in the pews, trusting the voice from the pulpit as both preacher and teacher.

That trust is not just historical—it is needed right now. Muscogee County stands on the threshold of one of the most important elections in our history, coming in May of 2026. What we decide in that voting booth will shape the future of our city for decades to come.

This is not about telling you who to vote for. It is about giving you the tools, the knowledge, and the facts so that when you cast your ballot, you do so with wisdom and understanding. The Black church and the Black press—together—must once again rise to the task of informing, educating, and mobilizing.

And let me be clear: this responsibility is not just for the Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance. It is for all Black churches in this city. Just as it is for the Courier Eco Latino, your Black press, to remain steadfast in reporting with courage and conviction.

If we stand together—pew and press, pulpit and paper—we will do more than cast votes. We will shape destiny.