August 18th 2024.
As the summer days passed by, the state of Minnesota celebrated a significant milestone - the 90th anniversary of its oldest Black-owned newspaper, the Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder. The owner, Tracy Williams-Dillard, was brimming with joy and happiness as she reflected on the paper's rich history. "It's truly overwhelming, and I feel absolutely phenomenal," she expressed with a smile. "To see my family's legacy live on for 90 years, through all the ups and downs, is simply remarkable."
To mark this momentous occasion, the Spokesman-Recorder has planned a grand celebration, including a St. Croix River yacht cruise and a gala at the historic Depot in Downtown Minneapolis. It's a testament to the newspaper's enduring impact and influence in the community. The paper was first established by Williams-Dillard's grandfather, Cecil E. Newman, with a noble purpose - to give a voice to the voiceless. Selling issues for just 5 cents each, Newman's vision was to fearlessly and tirelessly speak out against injustices, discrimination, and all forms of inequality.
"Our main focus is to ensure that the African American community is treated with the respect and dignity they deserve," Williams-Dillard stated proudly. "And if that's not the case, we will hold those accountable." It's a mission that the Spokesman-Recorder has been dedicated to for the past nine decades, shining a light on stories and issues that would otherwise be overlooked. With a central focus on the Black experience, the paper has covered everything from Barack Obama's historic election to the tragic police brutality against George Floyd in South Minneapolis.
"We are not only the oldest African American newspaper in Minnesota, but also the oldest Black-owned business in the state, and one of the oldest African-American newspapers in the country. That's something we are extremely proud of," Williams-Dillard shared in an interview with Fox 9. She hopes to one day pass on the family business to her daughter, ensuring that her family's legacy continues to thrive and make a difference in the community.
As the world continues to grapple with social and racial issues, Williams-Dillard believes that the Spokesman-Recorder's role is more critical now than ever before. "The community needs us, and we will continue to be here for them," she affirmed. The newspaper's impact and legacy are undeniable, and it's a testament to the hard work and dedication of the Newman family. As the Spokesman-Recorder enters its 90th year, one thing is for sure - it will continue to be a beacon of hope and a voice for the voiceless in the years to come.
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