Recognizing the dearth of minority journalists in local television, radio and print, a group of African-American reporters and photographers formed the Atlanta Association of Black Journalists in the fall of 1976. Part of the group's purpose was to collectively use its strength to push the mainstream media to diversify. Among AABJ's first projects were mentoring and scholarship programs. AABJ also sought to recognize groundbreaking professional journalists with its Pioneer Black Journalist Award and banquet. The first banquet was held in 1977 at the Butler Street YMCA's Hungry Club. In 1984, AABJ hosted the National Association of Black Journalists' national convention in Atlanta. Then U.S. presidential candidate Jesse Jackson was a guest speaker. A decade later, AABJ would host Unity '94, the first gathering of black, Asian, Hispanic and Native American journalists on record. .

All memberships in AABJ expire one year after they are activated. Memberships that are not renewed by the anniversary date are deemed expired. Read More...