[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 48 (Wednesday, March 15, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E607]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                            BLACK PRESS WEEK

                                 ______


                        HON. BARBARA B. KENNELLY

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, March 15, 1995
  Mrs. KENNELLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the invaluable 
contributions of the African-American press. From the founding of the 
Freedom's Journal, to the pioneering work of Ebony founder John 
Johnson, to the contributions of the National Newspaper Publishers 
Association [NNPA], the African-American press has been in the 
forefront of news coverage and a force for social change. It is fitting 
that we honor these and other leaders during National Black Press Week.
  This year, Ebony magazine is celebrating its 50th anniversary. Its 
founder and publisher, Mr. John Johnson, was recently awarded the 
prestigious Communication Award from the Center for Communication for 
this pioneering efforts on behalf of African-Americans. His work and 
values are embodied in Ebony, a premier American magazine known for its 
excellence.
  Mr. Johnson's work has helped pave the way for many African Americans 
in journalism. Within my own congressional district, there are 
newspapermen of great distinction: Mr. William Hales, editor and 
publisher of the Hartford Inquirer; Mr. Edgar Johnson, editor of the 
West Indian American; and Mr. John Allen, editor-in-chief of the North 
End Agent. Each one has distinguished himself and his paper by 
informing the community about relevant issues and pressing for social 
change. They have increased public awareness on issues of importance to 
the African-American and West Indian-American community.
  My district is richer for the contributions of these men and their 
papers. Today, their work is made possible in part by the legacy of the 
Nation's first African-American newspaper, the Freedom's Journal. Mr. 
John Brown Russwurm and Mr. Samuel E. Cornish founded this paper to 
honor the ideals of the rights and liberties guaranteed in the 
Constitution, and out of their appreciation for the rich diversity of 
African-American culture. Their first steps helped pave the way for the 
many men and women who followed in their footsteps. And they enriched 
the lives of all of us.
  Mr. Speaker, I would like to congratulate the NNPA on its 168th 
anniversary and also to thank all the journalists who carry on the 
traditions that make Black Press Week a distinguished celebration.
  





                          ____________________