Lee Terry: “I stand before you today on the occasion of Black Press Day. March 16 is the anniversary of the publication of the first…”

“I stand before you today on the occasion of Black Press Day. March 16 is the anniversary of the publication of the first black-owned newspaper in the United States. On this date in 1827, the first edition of Freedom's Journal rolled off the press and on to the streets of New York City. I borrow from the Newspaper Publishers Association when I recite the credo of the Black Press. The Black Press believes that America can best lead the world away from racial and national antagonism when it accords to every person, regardless of race, color or creed, full human and legal rights. Hating no person, fearing no person, the Black Press strives to help every person in the firm belief that all are hurt as long as anyone is held back. There is no better example of this credo than in my own district in Nebraska. The Omaha Star is one of the Nation's most renowned black-owned newspapers. We owe a special debt of gratitude to the pioneers of the Omaha Star, both past and present, who lead the fight for acceptance of all races. So on behalf of all Nebraskans, I say to the people of Omaha Star, thank you.”