On March 16, 1827 the four-page, four-columned Freedom’s Journal was first published. Being the first black-owned and operated newspaper in the United States, many white newspapers ignored or ridiculed this black press. Samuel Cornish and John Russwurm, two black-men born free, started the newspaper in hopes that they would be able to speak for themselves independently of whites and allow their stories to be told. The Freedom’s Journal became a landmark in the black community. It was not only a deeply influential column but also one that had the power of uniting black people by giving them a voice, self-awareness and a prominent role in changing the world.
Like many other reform papers in the antebellum period, Freedom’s Journal consisted of news of current events, anecdotes, editorials and so much more. The Journal spoke out against slavery in all states and fought to counter racism. The paper entertained, educated, and helped unite newly freed slaves. The editors of the newspaper understood that the only way for the black community to step away from the stereotypes associated with slavery was to educate the population and allow them to understand what is going on locally and nationally.
Freedom’s Journal provided its readers with regional, national, and international news that would help bring knowledge to the surrounding community. The first paper printed was established the same year that slavery was abolished in New York. Not only did the Journal touch on local news but also had articles on Haiti and Sierra Leone. Cornish and Russwurm also attempted to boost the morals of the black community by inspiring them. They included biographies of renowned black figures like Paul Cuffee, Touissant L’Ouverture and poet Phyllis Wheatley. By publishing other people’s achievements it allowed the black community to believe that there was hope for them.
As well as uniting and educating their audience, Freedom’s Journal attempted to help find freed slaves jobs and houses. The Journal published schools, job and house listings that were black friendly. The Journal encouraged people to places ads or write articles for the paper. One of the most famous writers, David Walker, went on to publish the “David Walker’s Appeal,” which called for slaves to rebel against their masters. This newspaper was the first real written movement that allowed the black voice to be heard. The editors understood that it was time for the black community to be educated, stand up, and rise against the stereotypes of the era.
The Freedom Journal was revolutionary in it's concept. Unfortunately, it's owner was attacked and killed by a mob. The Freedom Journal is an exhibit of what the Founding Fathers intended America to stand for. They wanted American to be a place of tolerance. The first amendment protects the freedom of speech, the freedom of press. So I ask, who was there to protect and uphold the constitution when the Freedom Journal's owner was being killed. How could police officers of that time have claimed to be officers of the law, when they didn't even protect the 1st Amendment?
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