Arizona Black Male Media Project

The Arizona Association of Black Journalists hosted a panel discussion in Phoenix, Arizona. The National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) hosted the Black Male Media Project across 19 other states in the U.S. Saturday, June 10.

The discussion was presented to help change the lives and images of black men in the news and in society. The Arizona event was held on Saturday at 2:30 pm at the Burton Barr Central Library. The NABJ Black Male Media Project is a nationwide effort. Most importantly, it exists to open doors and change the narrative of black men.

“We had a great turnout. I think it’s important for us and people to have conversations like these so they become normalized,” NABJ ASU President Micah Bledsoe said. As a result, the panel provided the Arizona association with new realizations from people within the Phoenix community.

In conclusion, the results helped to recognize that it is now the duty of the most recent generations to create change. “We also discussed ways to get black males more involved. We need to get people inspired to become a part of the representation that is necessary to lead further generations,” said Micah Bledsoe.

Furthermore, the panel participants included Moderator Tremaine Jasper, owner of Phxsoul.com. Micah Bledsoe, President of the NABJ Arizona State University student chapter. Andre Anderson, Commander Glendale, AZ Police Dept., former interim Ferguson, Missouri police chief. In addition, Floyd Galloway, Arizona Informant reporter and internet radio host. In addition, Reginald Walton the Phoenix BLM leader. Lastly, Ishmael Smith, Author of ” A Survival Guide for Black Boys in America.”

“From what I’ve heard and learned in school, I would say it’s because of institutionalized racism that we have yet to overcome,” said Micah Bledsoe.