Michigan Chronicle: A Black Media Outlet Still Shaping the Present

For nearly 90 years, the Michigan Chronicle has been more than just a newspaper. It has been a vital part of Black life, activism, and journalism in Detroit and beyond. The paper shapes public discussion and gives a voice to those often overlooked by mainstream media.

Founded in 1936 by John H. Sengstacke, the Michigan Chronicle started during a time of significant racial discrimination and a lack of representation for Black Americans in the news.

Sengstacke, who was then the editor of the influential Chicago Defender, sent Louis E. Martin to Detroit to start the paper. It quickly became known for its strong advocacy journalism and deep connection with the African-American community.

A Voice for a Growing Community

From its beginning, the Chronicle set itself apart from other publications. While many newspapers avoided addressing deep-seated inequalities, the Chronicle stood up for organized labor and progressive politics, even when those views were seen as “radical” for a Black newspaper in the mid-20th century.

Detroit historian Ken Coleman noted that over the years, the Chronicle became essential reading for Black residents in Detroit and the Metro Detroit area. This is happens as the city’s African-American population grew during the second wave of the Great Migration in the 1940s and 50s.

The newsroom’s coverage of vital civil rights issues, including police brutality and racial unrest, established its role as an essential institution.

In the 1960s, as Detroit faced economic turmoil and social conflict, the Chronicle was one of the few outlets that regularly covered the experiences of Black residents with the depth and context often missing in mainstream papers.

Journalism With Purpose

Over the years, the Michigan Chronicle didn’t just report on events; it helped shape them. Local leaders have credited the paper with influencing political outcomes and challenging abuses of power.

In the early 2000s, Detroit City Council member Kay Everett praised the Chronicle’s coverage of police misconduct, saying it “should have won the paper a Pulitzer Prize” for its reporting on the controversial STRESS unit and its deadly shootings of young Black men.

Today, under executive editor Jeremy Allen, the Chronicle continues to focus on truth-telling from a perspective that highlights historically underrepresented voices. “Black outlets like ours give humanity back to the community,” Allen said in a recent interview, explaining how the paper continues to address gaps left by traditional media.

The Chronicle’s mission remains clear: to hold elected officials accountable, spotlight issues of racial justice, and tell stories with nuance and dignity.

Its digital platforms, including a widely read website and newsletters, expand its reach well beyond Detroit, drawing millions of monthly visitors and keeping its reporting relevant in the digital age.

Evolving With the Times

The Michigan Chronicle’s ability to adapt has been key to its longevity. Like many established newspapers, it has embraced digital change while keeping its printed weekly edition. Through multimedia storytelling, social media engagement, and community-focused events, the Chronicle stays connected to both longtime readers and new audiences.

Recent initiatives show its evolving role. In 2024, the Chronicle partnered with Comcast NBCUniversal to support a fellowship program aimed at nurturing Black and LGBTQ+ media voices. This partnership highlights its influence in shaping future generations of journalists.

It also continues to serve as a center for civic engagement. Programs like the annual 40 Under 40 Leaders awards recognize emerging Black talent across various fields, reinforcing the publication’s commitment to uplifting community leaders.

A Legacy With Purpose

Nearly nine decades after its founding, the Michigan Chronicle’s legacy lives on not only in historical archives but also through its daily reporting and community engagement.

It stands as a testament to the power of Black media to influence the present and help create a more equitable future.

“Even though we’re reporting from our perspective and our unique lived experiences, it’s not limited to the group we’re reporting about,” Allen said. “There’s always a chance to learn from how we report and what we report. That’s proven to be true.”