The NABJ was founded in 1975 by 44 men and women of color committed to creating a professional organization that elevated the successes and supported the development of black journalists. The NABJ distributes over $100,000 annually in scholarships for promising journalism students and recognizes outstanding achievement in the field through its award programs.
The Ida B. Wells award is named for the famed reporter, Memphis Free Speech editor, and civil rights activist. Since 1983, NABJ, in collaboration with Northwestern’s Medill School of Journalism, has bestowed this honor upon journalists who have expanded opportunities for people of color and improved coverage of events in minority communities.