"As it is spoken, so let us record." Serving the African American community in Minnesota with timely and original news stories for 90 years and counting! Newman.
The Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder (MSR) is the oldest Black and minority-owned business in the state of Minnesota — 89 years and counting. The MSR today remains a family-run newspaper company that is African American and woman-owned, led by CEO/Publisher, Tracey Williams-Dillard, granddaughter to founder, Mr. Cecil E. The MSR is a newspaper committed to being a resource hub with original new stories and info for African Americans throughout the state and beyond.
01/07/2025
As Juneteenth events are canceled and DEI efforts rolled back, BLM’s Cicley Gay says we must respond with resistance and joy.
“Juneteenth invites us to ask who in America is still fighting for freedom.”
This op-ed is a powerful reminder that celebrating Black and brown joy is a radical act.
Angel Reese is flipping the narrative again, this time with the launch of Mebounds—a new merch line reclaiming an internet jab and turning it into a movement.
In a powerful response to MPR News’ portrayal of domestic terrorism suspect Vance Boelter, Nekima Levy Armstrong is speaking out against the way white male suspects are humanized in the media — while Black victims are often erased or dehumanized.
📣 “This is a form of racialized storytelling that protects the image of white suspects at the expense of truth and accountability.”
YWCA St. Paul is responding to political hostility toward equity and justice by reaffirming its mission and refocusing its work on the most urgent community needs:
🏠 Housing
💼 Economic advancement
🩺 Health & wellness
In an era where DEI is being defunded and attacked, Black-led organizations like YWCA St. Paul are under immense pressure. But they aren’t backing down — and they’re calling on all of us to support and sustain the work.
Celebrate in style with the MSR Weekend Package for Two – just $460
Perfect for couples or friends looking to turn celebration into a full getaway!
🎉 Package Includes:
🚌 Round-trip luxury bus ride for two to the Legacy Yacht Cruise
🛥️ 2 tickets to the Legacy Yacht Cruise – Friday, August 15
🎤 2 tickets to the MSR 91st Anniversary Gala – Saturday, August 16
“Black athletes are the majority on the court, but still underrepresented in the commentary.”
PR pro Tonya McKenzie is calling out the media for how it covers Black athletes and coaches, especially in the WNBA and NFL.
🏀 The Women's Basketball Hall of Fame Class of 2025 brought heartfelt gratitude, historic recognition, and powerful stories to Knoxville’s Tennessee Theatre.
Inductees included Sylvia Fowles, Sue Bird, Alana Beard, Cappie Pondexter, Mark Campbell, Danielle Donehew, and coaching legend Lucille Kyvallos.
Support the Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder’s historic celebration by giving your time, talents, or donations:
🧡 Become a Volunteer
We need help with pre-event planning and day-of support for both the Legacy Yacht Cruise and 91st Anniversary Gala — roles include check-in, setup, guest greeting, and more.
🎁 Donate to the Silent Auction
Promote your business and support Black media!
We're accepting gift cards, services, products, and experiences. Your business will be recognized at the Gala and featured in our electronic bidding system.
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Our Story
The Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder (MSR) enjoys a living legacy as the oldest Black-owned newspaper in the state of Minnesota and one of the longest-standing, family-owned newspapers in the country.
Civil rights activist and businessman Cecil E. Newman launched the MSR in August 1934 as two separate papers: the Minneapolis Spokesman and the St. Paul Recorder before it merged into one single news publication in 2007. Today, the MSR is helmed by his granddaughter, Tracey Williams-Dillard, who serves as CEO/Publisher.
For the past 84 years, the MSR has established itself as a trusted voice for the diverse Black communities of Minnesota -- championing voices and stories that might otherwise go unheard.
Each week, the newspaper’s diverse staff creates original content for its print publication, along with daily content for its website that speak to stories of human interest from a Black perspective.
The MSR’s mission is to provide timely news and information focused on community empowerment and education while championing underrepresented voices. More than just a newspaper, this includes creating content that not just informs, but also inspires, educates and encourages conversations that go beyond today’s news headlines.
In addition to serving as a trusted source for Black news and information, the paper is also as a cherished cultural resource. The MSR’s building was designated as a local historic landmark on November 20, 2015 by a full Minneapolis City Council vote.
The MSR is currently working to expand its reach via social and digital media channels, while also developing opportunities for community engagement and involvement via strategic partnerships and events.