Black Trailblazers in PR Are an Inspiring Reminder to Work with Purpose

As Black History Month celebrations continue, it’s fitting to spotlight some of the innovators who significantly contributed to the public relations field, reshaped the portrayal of African Americans in the media, and opened doors of opportunity.?

These trailblazers are a reminder to us to work with purpose every day, seek equality and recognize that the work of PR is a platform for brands to take a stand and make positive change.?

Maggie Lena Walker (1864 or 1867-1934) Walker’s genius for public relations helped her organize her community, rally support for her causes, and establish long-lasting, successful institutions. Best known for being the first woman in the U.S. to charter a local bank, Walker “touched the life of her community at virtually every level."?

Joseph Varney Baker (1908 – 1993) After starting his career as a journalist in Philadelphia, Baker founded what’s thought to be the first Black-owned public relations firm in the United States, becoming known for acquiring significant accounts from large corporations. The Encyclopedia of Public Relations describes him as a “much-revered entrepreneur within both the Black community and corporate America…a formidable force in bridging the two constituencies.”?

Dr. Jesse J. Lewis, Sr. (1925 – ) founded Jesse J. Lewis and Associates and redefined marketing and communications by challenging corporations to pay attention to the spending power of African American consumers. His efforts changed the way media and advertisers portrayed African Americans, challenging the industry to display parents and families in a positive light.??

John Harold Johnson (1918 – 2005) was a media magnate whose Johnson Publishing Company launched Jet and Ebony magazines, among others. According to a profile in Entrepreneur, “many agree that the Civil Rights Movement itself would not have been as broadly understood by the masses in this country if it were not for Ebony and Jet,” whose writers attended and reported on movement meetings in churches across the South.?

Linda Jonson Rice (1958 - ) Johnson Publish Company is now helmed by Linda Johnson Rice, daughter of John H. Johnson. Rice has reinvented the company to create television, film, and other projects, with a nod to its historic past. In 2002, as chairman and CEO, she became the first African American female CEO among the top five of the Black Enterprise 100s largest black-owned companies.?

At Access, we are proud of the DEI work that we do internally and with our clients, and we are inspired by the impact and courage of these five leaders.?