Since 2020, Black Iowa News readers like you have joined our network and helped us reach more Iowans with our journalism. Our work — online and in print — prioritizes Black Iowans whose perspectives, communities and voices deserve to be heard, documented and shared.

But, quality journalism is under attack, and local newspapers are closing. Advertising revenue is dropping while misinformation and AI manipulation are on the rise.

It’s a critical time, and Black Iowa News is here to bring you trustworthy and accurate news. 

We know what’s at stake — democracy, education and freedom. Every day, we fight for representation, nuance and an accurate telling of our history.

Black Iowa News is here when:

• Black mothers discussed the pain of losing their children to gun violence; Black Iowa News was the only media outlet present.
• The mainstream media focused on the binge drinking connection to soaring cancer rates, while Black Iowa News took it a step further and sounded the alarm about the racial disparities.
• Black Iowans, in particular, need fair and accurate voting and candidate information that empowers them to use their votes to address the realities in their neighborhoods, cities and schools. Black Iowa News produces stories and voter information tailored to the needs of Black Iowans, and t here is a lot of work ahead.

We do a lot with a small team and budget. Black Iowa News publishes statewide news daily online, on social media and in our weekly email newsletter. We deliver free monthly newspapers to over 120 locations in 24 Iowa cities, including libraries, universities, churches and small businesses.

With your partnership, together we can do more. Black Iowa News is free to read, but not free to produce. We have to cover essential expenses, including printing, gas and other costs, to ensure statewide newspaper delivery. You can help keep Black Iowa News reporting — and distribution throughout our state — by becoming a paid subscriber. Your monthly subscription lets us fill reporting gaps and provide essential coverage.

If you value our work, we aim to add 250 paid subscribers by Sept. 1. Will you join us?  Become a subscriber for $14.99 per month, which is tax-deductible.

Every contribution matters to our future.

Thank you for being a vital part of this community, for believing in the power of local news and for making a tax-deductible donation.

Help us by sharing this campaign with people who appreciate Black Iowa News' work.

With gratitude,

Dana James, Founder & Publisher, Black Iowa News