nabj-philadelphia reception, 10/27/23

The atmosphere was cordial, welcoming and warm as new and old friends gathered to celebrate NABJ-Philadelphia as the newest professional affiliate chapter of the National Association of Black Journalists. It was refreshing, a throwback to when journalists not only respected each other but found strength in solidarity.

We were back among those who shared the vision of what a Black journalists’ organization should be and could be – free from rancor, filled with congeniality for one another, Black people and the profession.

We connected with those brave souls who in the 1970s formed an organization of Black journalists despite the fear of losing their jobs. Linda Wright Moore, a former journalist and columnist in her own right, brought along a favorite cartoon by Signe Wilkinson of the Philadelphia Daily News showing children following in the oversized footsteps of Acel Moore, a founder of the Association of Black Journalists (ABJ). Tony Cuffie, a former vice president of advertising sales at The Philadelphia Inquirer, presented NABJ-Philadelphia with a portrait of Chuck Stone, another founding member who was dual president of the ABJ and NABJ when both were initially formed.

It was, simply, a great night that offered the personal touch many journalists had been craving and sorely missed.  

Photos by Bill Edwards.