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Editorial
Editorial Archives
Friday, March 11, 2005; Page 19
Getting In Where We Can Fit In
The digital-age allows for information to be disseminated widely through electronic means. Publishers, editors, businesses and organizations are able to do things online that the limits of a page count make nearly impossible. Additionally, the young adults of today and the generations of tomorrow, who are almost forced to be technologically literate due to changing times, will often reject conventional means of research for the convenience of the Internet.
Locally, it seems that new publications are springing up all over the city on what seems a daily basis. The popularity of many of these newspapers and magazines has alarmed some local media veterans. One benefit to all this newfound competition is that it serves to foster dialogue about the challenges that print media outlets face in trying to stay afloat, particularly the Black press, which is perhaps the most hard hit by the increasing competition.
Trying to stay above water in a market that is highly dependant on large amounts of capital, newspapers and magazines serving the Black community continue to fight to offer a salient voice for African Americans. The buying and selling of the “voice of Black America” remains a touchy issue, leaving many to argue that the line between finance and cultural integrity is becoming too narrow.
Many have critiqued Ed Lewis, Chairman and CEO of Essence Communications and Publisher of Essence magazine, for signing an agreement that allows Time Inc. to acquire the portion of Essence Communications Partners, that it does not already own. Lewis said in a letter to Essence readers, “Our recent decision to sell our majority stake offers us enormous opportunities for growth while protecting our mission to empower Black women. Having Time Warner’s full financial support adds even greater strength to our existing resources. It also gives Essence additional credibility on Madison Avenue as a blue-chip property in the largest and one of the most respected magazine groups in the world.”
As Black Press Week approaches (March 16-18), let’s remember what we, as African Americans consumers, have at stake in this ongoing media war. |
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