Black-owned magazines have always played a significant role in reshaping culture and showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Black community. These magazines have always highlighted the contributions of the Black community in various fields like politics, science, business, and fashion. If you are someone who wants to know more about the Black-owned magazines that continue to raise their voices for the unrepresented, this article is for you. It brings you a detailed list of the top Black-owned magazines that continue to stand out as platforms for advocacy, creativity, as well as community.
1. Essence
Essence is widely considered one of the most popular black-owned magazines. It was founded back in 1970 and has become one of the most prominent American lifestyle magazines ever since. Essence focuses on various topics like fashion, beauty, entertainment, culture, career, finance, health, and spirituality. Time Inc. acquired Essence back in 2005 for a short period of time, and Richelieu Dennis, Sundial Brands’ founder, acquired it in 2018. This returned Essence to 100% black ownership. Hollywood recognized the magazine as one of the most influential black women’s magazines, and it has received over 12 awards in various fields.
2. Ebony
Ebony broke the stereotypes in America as it became the first black-oriented magazine to achieve national circulation. The magazine was founded in 1945 with the main objective of covering the black community’s life and culture positively. Ebony is currently known for focusing on significant topics like politics, entertainment, beauty, and wellness. The magazine also aims to document the ground-breaking achievements of Black individuals. Ebony was sold to Clear View Group in 2016 and to NBA player Junior Bridgeman for $14 million in 2020. Under his leadership, Ebony started focusing on its digital-first approach and important themes like financial literacy and Black entrepreneurship.
3. MadameNoire
MadameNoire is one of the most prominent Black-owned magazines in the digital landscape, which was launched in 2010. The content of this magazine is published with an aim to connect with the wide audience of Black women and their experiences. It is currently focusing on various aspects of life such as fashion, beauty, health, career advice, parenting, entertainment, and social justice. iONE Digital acquired MadameNoire back in 2017, and Shanita Hubbard was appointed as the Managing Editor. She’s widely known for her contributions to the welfare of Black women, especially in areas like sexual violence and mass incarceration.
4. Callaloo
Launched in 1976, Callaloo is one of the most prominent literary journals, which is focused on showcasing the talent of the black community. Johns Hopkins University Press is currently publishing the journal. The content published in this journal includes poetry, short fiction, critical essays, interviews, book reviews, and visual art. It was launched to provide a solid platform for writers and artists of the black community. Widely known authors like Alice Walker, Octavia Butler, Lucille Clifton, and Edwidge Danticat have had their work published in Callaloo.
5. ART AFRICA
ART AFRICA is one of the most popular black-owned magazines around the globe, which focuses on providing a strong platform for contemporary art from Africa. It was launched in 2002 and is often seen challenging the historical narratives and stereotypes marginalizing voices from the Global South. It is currently focusing on a wide range of topics, including exhibitions, festivals, and the rapidly evolving art scenes across various regions. It even launched a digital archive considering the evolving consumer preferences. It has also collaborated with various global organizations such as the Sharjah Biennale, Bamako Biennale, Dakar Biennale, and São Paulo Biennale.
6. Black Enterprise
Black Enterprise magazine is a publication from Black Enterprises, which is one of the most prominent black-owned multimedia companies. It was launched in 1970 and offers important insights to entrepreneurs into wealth-building entrepreneurship and economic empowerment. It is currently focusing on various aspects like entrepreneurship, leadership, finance, technology, and lifestyle. It was awarded the FOLIO: Editorial Excellence Award back in 1997 and the A.G. Gaston Lifetime Achievement Award. In 2020, the magazine launched a multimedia tribute titled “BE: Celebrating 50 Years of Excellence” that lasted for a year. It honored the legacy of its founder, Earl G. Graves Sr., who passed away that year.
7. Atlanta Tribune
Atlanta Tribune is one of the most popular business lifestyle magazines for the black community based in Atlanta, which was launched in 1986. The magazine now focuses on providing useful insights into various topics like business, wealth-building, technology, and career development. The magazine celebrated 30 years of success back in 2016, featuring prominent figures such as Ambassador Andrew Young and Dikembe Mutombo. It also joined hands with Real Times Media in 2017, which is also famous for African American-focused publications, including the Michigan Chronicle and the Chicago Defender.
8. Cuisine Noir
Cuisine Noir made history and became the first Black-owned food, wine, and travel magazine in the United States of America. It focuses on showcasing the rich culinary traditions, stories, and contributions of the black community. The magazine was launched in 1998 and went digital in 2009. Cuisine Noir became a part of The Global Food and Drink Initiative, further solidifying itself as a platform for Black chefs, winemakers, and culinary professionals. It is also raising its voice on other significant issues like climate change and food justice.
9. MunaLuchi Bride
MunaLuchi Bride is the first-ever multicultural bridal magazine in the United States, which was launched back in 2010. It was founded to fill the significant gap that existed before its launch in the wedding industry. It provides a strong platform for celebrating and showcasing the beauty of multicultural couples and brides of color. It publishes content on various topics, including real weddings, bridal fashion, and expert advice. It also features The Coterie, a curated directory of multicultural wedding vendors.
