By Frank Macek As the National Association of Black Journalists marks its golden anniversary, thousands of journalists, media professionals, students, and allies will convene in Cleveland, Ohio, August 6–10, 2025, for the landmark 50th Annual NABJ Convention & Career Fair. This gathering at the Huntington Convention Center of Cleveland reflects NABJ’s half‑century in elevating Black voices in journalism and media, blending professional development, advocacy, and celebration of Black excellence. Origins and Mission: Why NABJ Was Founded Founded on December 12, 1975, in Washington, D.C., by 44 Black journalists, NABJ emerged amid concerns that mainstream media lacked diversity and misrepresented Black communities. Inspired by prior local journalist associations and in response to the Kerner Commission’s 1968 findings, NABJ launched with a mission to increase Black representation in newsrooms and advocate for greater inclusion and accurate storytelling. Over decades, it has grown into...