Janis Ware: Steering The Atlanta Voice into a New Era - Championing Diversity and Democracy in Journalism

In the competitive world of Atlanta's journalism, Janis Ware emerges as a figure of unwavering significance, carrying forward the beacon of The Atlanta Voice, an institution rooted deeply in the rich soil of Black heritage and civil rights history. It was in 1991, following the footsteps of her visionary father, J. Lowell Ware, that Janis, at the age of 35, assumed the mantle of this storied publication. Her father's legacy was not just in founding The Atlanta Voice amidst the fervor of the Civil Rights Movement but in ensuring that it stood as a testament to the struggles, triumphs, and ongoing battles for justice and equality within the Black community.

Janis Ware 's journey at the helm has been nothing short of transformative, navigating through the tumultuous waves of economic downturns and the seismic shifts brought about by the digital era. Her roles extend beyond the confines of The Atlanta Voice, resonating through the news industry as the First Vice-Chair of the National Newspaper Publishers Association and as Treasurer of the Local Media Association. It's a reflection of her indomitable spirit and commitment to the cause of independent journalism and its critical role in a democratic society.

Under her stewardship, The Atlanta Voice has been a crucible for diversity, reflecting a mosaic of voices that span the spectrum of race, ethnicity, gender identity, and socio-economic backgrounds. It's a deliberate and conscious effort to embody the multifaceted narrative of the Black community, ensuring that every story, every nuance, is given its due space and respect. This commitment has transformed The Atlanta Voice into a sanctuary where stories, often sidelined by the mainstream, find a home, a place where the community's heartbeats are echoed and amplified.

The Atlanta Voice is more than just a newspaper; it's a chronicler of history, a platform for dialogue and debate, and a beacon for the Black community in Atlanta and beyond. Janis Ware, through her leadership, has ensured that The Atlanta Voice remains steadfast in its mission, echoing the ethos of its founders and the undying spirit of the Civil Rights Movement that gave it life.