New book examines how news outlets cover Black communities

January 9th, 2024

Andrea Wenzel, an associate professor at Temple University and former journalist, discusses her new book, "Antiracist Journalism: The Challenge of Creating Equitable Local News." (Photo courtesy of Andrea Wenzel)

In her prior career, Andrea Wenzel worked as a journalist. Now, as an associate professor at Temple University, she’s analyzing news outlets and the way they cover Black communities.

Wenzel’s new book, “Antiracist Journalism: The Challenge of Creating Equitable Local News,” also discusses different approaches to how newsrooms can provide more diverse and equitable reporting.

Wenzel talked with show host Rose Scott about her new book, saying some Black communities feel they only interact with journalists during tragedies.

During the conversation, Wenzel also discussed the importance of cultural competence, how mainstream news coverage can be less harmful to communities of color, and how colorblind editorial practices can be centered on whiteness.