Uploaded February 2023 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago
In 1940, The Chicago Crusader, then known as "The Crusader," was established. The weekly local newspaper focused on relevant news and topics centering Black Chicagoans. Balm L. Leavell and Joseph H. Jefferson founded The Crusader, with Leavell leading its publishing until his passing in 1968.
His wife, Dorothy R. Leavell, took over operations and leads the paper's publishing to this day. The Chicago Crusader continues publishing weekly to an audience of just under 500,000 and is the City's longest-running African-American paper.
"Freedom’s Journal, the first Black publication, was founded in 1827 when the publishers’ mission was, 'We wish to plead our own cause . . .' In these modern times, when there are rumors of the Black Press’ demise, it has proven resilient, relevant, and revered as we continue to inform, inspire, and educate our readers.
The Chicago Crusader thrives because of its connection to the community and the service we provide in sharing all the stories of the City of Chicago."
-- Dorothy R. Leavell
In 1940, The Chicago Crusader, then known as "The Crusader," was established. The weekly local newspaper focused on relevant news and topics centering Black Chicagoans. Balm L. Leavell and Joseph H. Jefferson founded The Crusader, with Leavell leading its publishing until his passing in 1968.
His wife, Dorothy R. Leavell, took over operations and leads the paper's publishing to this day. The Chicago Crusader continues publishing weekly to an audience of just under 500,000 and is the City's longest-running African-American paper.
"Freedom’s Journal, the first Black publication, was founded in 1827 when the publishers’ mission was, 'We wish to plead our own cause . . .' In these modern times, when there are rumors of the Black Press’ demise, it has proven resilient, relevant, and revered as we continue to inform, inspire, and educate our readers.
The Chicago Crusader thrives because of its connection to the community and the service we provide in sharing all the stories of the City of Chicago."
-- Dorothy R. Leavell
