An estimated 1,800 newspapers closed between 2004 and 2018 after the number of people buying print editions dropped, and now during the pandemic, it appears most small publications – especially minority-based ones – will be phased out altogether.
Without fear or favor, AANI vows to keep circulating our printed newspapers, servicing the needs of our most vulnerable community members – those who do not have access to the internet and digital media.
Several Houston media outlets, specifically those servicing the Black community like the Houston Defender and Forward Times, have launched campaigns asking for either public donations and/or deciding to use only the online versions of their publications, offering no print editions due to the loss of advertisement dollars.
Other Black-owned community newspapers, including the Washington Informer, Atlanta Voice, Texas Metro News, Seattle Medium, and Virginia’s New Journal & Guide are also fighting to stay afloat during these trying times.
Today, with all the COVID-19 daily updates and adjustments, we feel our responsibility is to make sure those who are out of the “digital” loop, still remain in the loop of valuable information affecting the community for overall health and safety.
