#NNPA BlackPress

Medgar Evers, Rep. Clyburn, Among Nineteen Honored with Presidential Medal of Freedom

NNPA NEWSWIRE — “The National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) joins all Americans today to salute all of the Presidential Medal of Freedom Award recipients at the White House,” NNPA President and CEO Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr., stated. “The Biden-Harris administration continues to lead America forward toward freedom, justice, and equality for all. The NNPA takes special note and salute Congressman Clyburn and Medgar Evers for their outstanding and transformative courage and leadership in the ongoing freedom movement for civil and human rights. The Black Press of America extends heartfelt congratulations to Clyburn, Evers, and all who are being honored today.”
The post Medgar Evers, Rep. Clyburn, Among Nineteen Honored with Presidential Medal of Freedom first appeared on BlackPressUSA.

Published

1 year ago

May 3, 2024

Stacy M. Brown

By Stacy M. Brown, NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
@StacyBrownMedia

President Joe Biden will award 19 individuals the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor. Civil rights icon Medgar Wiley Evers and South Carolina Democratic Rep. James Clyburn lead the list of recipients whose legacy of bravery and activism inspires generations.

Evers, born in 1925 in Decatur, Mississippi, is remembered for his unwavering dedication to the civil rights movement despite facing relentless racism and threats to his life. His childhood was marked by the pervasive specter of racism, with incidents like the lynching of a family friend serving as stark reminders of the injustice prevalent in the community. Determined to make a difference, Evers enlisted in the Army during World War II, serving with distinction in a segregated field battalion in England and France.

After returning, Evers earned a Bachelor of Arts from Alcorn College, where he met Myrlie Beasley, whom he married in 1951. He embarked on a career in activism, joining the NAACP and organizing boycotts and protests to combat segregation and discrimination. His efforts caught the attention of the NAACP national leadership, leading to his appointment as Mississippi’s first field secretary for the organization.

Evers also organized boycotts and advocated for the admission of African American students to the University of Mississippi. Despite facing constant threats and violence, Evers remained steadfast in his commitment to the cause of equality. A white supremacist assassinated Evers on June 12, 1963, outside his home, sparking outrage and galvanizing the civil rights movement.

Clyburn, a stalwart figure in American politics known as the “Kingmaker,” has dedicated his life to public service and advocacy. Representing South Carolina’s 6th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives, Clyburn has served since 1993, making history as the first African American to hold multiple terms as Majority Whip. A South Carolina State University graduate, he began his career as a public school teacher in Charleston before assuming roles as an employment counselor and director of youth and community development programs.

Clyburn’s foray into state government, serving as South Carolina Human Affairs Commissioner, marked a significant milestone in his career. He became the first African American advisor to a South Carolina governor. His transition to federal politics in 1993 heralded a new chapter of leadership, as he became chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus and Vice Chair of the House Democratic Caucus.

Clyburn has earned numerous accolades and honors, including the prestigious Spingarn Medal from the NAACP. His pivotal endorsement of Joe Biden in the 2020 presidential race is widely credited with shaping the course of the election, propelling Biden to victory in crucial primaries and ultimately to the presidency.

“The National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) joins all Americans today to salute all of the Presidential Medal of Freedom Award recipients at the White House,” NNPA President and CEO Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr., stated. “The Biden-Harris administration continues to lead America forward toward freedom, justice, and equality for all. The NNPA takes special note and salute Congressman Clyburn and Medgar Evers for their outstanding and transformative courage and leadership in the ongoing freedom movement for civil and human rights. The Black Press of America extends heartfelt congratulations to Clyburn, Evers, and all who are being honored today.”

Among the recipients joining Evers and Clyburn are:

Michael R. Bloomberg, former Mayor of New York City, revolutionized the financial information industry and significantly impacted various sectors, including education, the environment, public health, and the arts.

Father Gregory Boyle, the founder of Homeboy Industries, has dedicated his life to gang intervention and rehabilitation, offering hope and opportunities to thousands in Los Angeles.

Senator Elizabeth Dole, a trailblazing leader who has served in various government roles, including the United States Senate and President of the American Red Cross, has steadfastly advocated for military caregivers and their families.

Phil Donahue, a pioneering journalist, revolutionized daytime television with his issue-oriented talk show, setting a new standard for engagement and discourse.

Al Gore, former Vice President, has been a prominent figure in climate activism and global diplomacy, earning recognition for his efforts to address climate change.

Clarence B. Jones, a civil rights activist and confidant of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., played a pivotal role in shaping the civil rights movement and preserving Dr. King’s legacy.

Secretary John Kerry, a decorated veteran and former Secretary of State, has dedicated his life to public service, championing diplomacy and environmental stewardship.

Senator Frank Lautenberg, remembered for his extensive service in the United States Senate and advocacy for environmental protection and consumer safety, is honored posthumously.

Katie Ledecky, the most decorated female swimmer in history, has captivated audiences with her remarkable athleticism and achievements in the pool.

Opal Lee, an educator, and activist played a crucial role in making Juneteenth a federally recognized holiday. This symbolized a triumph in the ongoing struggle for equality.

Dr. Ellen Ochoa, the first Hispanic woman in space, continues to inspire future generations as a leading figure in science and exploration.

Speaker Nancy Pelosi, a longtime advocate for democracy and progressive values, has been instrumental in shaping legislative agendas and Democratic priorities.

Dr. Jane Rigby, a prominent astronomer, embodies the spirit of exploration and discovery, contributing to our understanding of the universe.

Teresa Romero, president of the United Farm Workers, has been a tireless advocate for the rights of agricultural workers, securing important victories that have improved their lives.

Judy Shepard, co-founder of the Matthew Shepard Foundation, has been a driving force in the fight against hate crimes, fostering progress and understanding.

Jim Thorpe, the first Native American to win an Olympic gold medal, broke barriers in sports and society, leaving an enduring legacy as an athlete and advocate.

Michelle Yeoh, an acclaimed actress, has broken stereotypes and enriched American culture through her groundbreaking work in film.

“There is nothing beyond our capacity when we act together,” Biden insisted. “These nineteen Americans built teams, coalitions, movements, organizations, and businesses that shaped America for the better. They are the pinnacle of leadership in their fields. They consistently demonstrated over their careers the power of community, hard work, and service.”

The post Medgar Evers, Rep. Clyburn, Among Nineteen Honored with Presidential Medal of Freedom first appeared on BlackPressUSA.

Stacy M. Brown

Posts by Stacy M. Brown

Up Next

Oakland Post: Week of May 1 – 7, 2024

Don't Miss

Vice President Kamala Harris Announces Nationwide Economic Opportunity Tour

Stacy M. Brown

Click to comment

#NNPA BlackPress

Remembering George Floyd

Published

4 days ago

May 25, 2025

Oakland Post

Oakland Post

Posts by Oakland Post

#NNPA BlackPress

OP-ED: Oregon Bill Threatens the Future of Black Owned Newspapers and Community Journalism

BLACKPRESSUSA NEWSWIRE — Nearly half of Oregon’s media outlets are now owned by national conglomerates with no lasting investment in local communities. According to an OPB analysis, Oregon has lost more than 90 news jobs (and counting) in the past five years. These were reporters, editors and photographers covering school boards, investigating corruption and telling community stories, until their jobs were cut by out-of-state corporations.

Published

6 days ago

May 23, 2025

Oakland Post

By Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr.
President and CEO, National Newspaper Publishers Association

For decades, The Skanner newspaper in Portland, the Portland Observer, and the Portland Medium have served Portland, Oregon’s Black community and others with a vital purpose: to inform, uplift and empower. But legislation now moving through the Oregon Legislature threatens these community news institutions—and others like them.

As President and CEO of the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA), which represents more than 255 Black-owned media outlets across the United States—including historic publications like The Skanner, Portland Observer, and the Portland Medium—l believe that some Oregon lawmakers would do more harm than good for local journalism and community-owned publications they are hoping to protect.

Oregon Senate Bill 686 would require large digital platforms such as Google and Meta to pay for linking to news content. The goal is to bring desperately needed support to local newsrooms. However, the approach, while well-intentioned, puts smaller, community-based publications at a future severe financial risk.

We need to ask – will these payments paid by tech companies benefit the journalists and outlets that need them most? Nearly half of Oregon’s media outlets are now owned by national conglomerates with no lasting investment in local communities. According to an OPB analysis, Oregon has lost more than 90 news jobs (and counting) in the past five years. These were reporters, editors, and photographers covering school boards, investigating corruption, and telling community stories, until their jobs were cut by out-of-state corporations.

Legislation that sends money to these national conglomerate owners—without the right safeguards to protect independent and community-based outlets—rewards the forces that caused this inequitable crisis in the first place. A just and inclusive policy must guarantee that support flows to the front lines of local journalism and not to the boardrooms of large national media corporations.

The Black Press exists to fill in the gaps left by larger newsrooms. Our reporters are trusted messengers. Our outlets serve as forums for civic engagement, accountability and cultural pride. We also increasingly rely on our digital platforms to reach our audiences, especially younger generations—where they are.

We are fervently asking Oregon lawmakers to take a step back and engage in meaningful dialogue with those most affected: community publishers, small and independent outlets and the readers we serve. The Skanner, The Portland Observer, and The Portland Medium do not have national corporate parents or large investors. And they, like many smaller, community-trusted outlets, rely on traffic from search engines and social media to boost advertising revenue, drive subscriptions, and raise awareness.

Let’s work together to build a better future for Black-owned newspapers and community journalism that is fair, local,l and representative of all Oregonians.

Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr., President & CEO, National Newspaper Publishers Association

Oakland Post

Posts by Oakland Post

#NNPA BlackPress

Hate and Chaos Rise in Trump’s America

BLACKPRESSUSA NEWSWIRE — Tactics ranged from local policy manipulation to threats of violence. The SPLC documented bomb threats at 60 polling places in Georgia, traced to Russian email domains.

Published

6 days ago

May 23, 2025

Stacy M. Brown

By Stacy M. Brown
Black Press USA Senior National Correspondent

The Southern Poverty Law Center has identified 1,371 hate and antigovernment extremist groups operating across the United States in 2024. In its latest Year in Hate & Extremism report, the SPLC reveals how these groups are embedding themselves in politics and policymaking while targeting marginalized communities through intimidation, disinformation, and violence. “Extremists at all levels of government are using cruelty, chaos, and constant attacks on communities and our democracy to make us feel powerless,” said SPLC President Margaret Huang. The report outlines how hard-right groups aggressively targeted diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives throughout 2024. Figures on the far right falsely framed DEI as a threat to white Americans, with some branding it a form of “white genocide.” After the collapse of Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge, a former Utah legislator blamed the incident on DEI, posting “DEI = DIE.”

Tactics ranged from local policy manipulation to threats of violence. The SPLC documented bomb threats at 60 polling places in Georgia, traced to Russian email domains. Similar threats hit Jewish institutions and Planet Fitness locations after far-right social media accounts attacked them for trans-inclusive policies. Telegram, which SPLC describes as a hub for hate groups, helped extremists cross-recruit between neo-Nazi, QAnon, and white nationalist spaces. The platform’s lax moderation allowed groups like the Terrorgram Collective—designated terrorists by the U.S. State Department—to thrive. Militia movements were also reorganized, with 50 groups documented in 2024. Many, calling themselves “minutemen,” trained in paramilitary tactics while lobbying local governments for official recognition. These groups shared personnel and ideology with white nationalist organizations.

The manosphere continued to radicalize boys and young men. The Fresh & Fit podcast, now listed as a hate group, promoted misogyny while mocking and attacking Black women. Manosphere influencers used social media algorithms to drive youth toward male-supremacy content. Turning Point USA played a key role in pushing white nationalist rhetoric into mainstream politics. Its leader Charlie Kirk claimed native-born Americans are being replaced by immigrants, while the group advised on Project 2025 and organized Trump campaign events. “We know that these groups build their power by threatening violence, capturing political parties and government, and infesting the mainstream discourse with conspiracy theories,” said Rachel Carroll Rivas, interim director of the SPLC’s Intelligence Project. “By exposing the players, tactics, and code words of the hard right, we hope to dismantle their mythology and inspire people to fight back.”

Click here for the full report or visit http://www.splcenter.org/resources/guides/year-hate-extremism-2024.