Honoring the Roanoke Tribune: A Pillar of Strength, Knowledge, and Progress
As Total Action for Progress (TAP) celebrates 60 years of empowering communities and fostering progress, we take a moment to honor institutions that have stood with us—documenting our stories, uplifting voices, and championing social change.
One such institution is the Roanoke Tribune, a trusted source of Black news and a pillar of the Roanoke community for over 80 years. The Tribune was one of three organizations honored during TAP’s Black History Celebration on March 18, 2025. The following tribute was shared during the event.
A Beacon of Black Journalism Since 1939
Founded in 1939 by Rev. Fleming E. Alexander, the Roanoke Tribune quickly became more than just a newspaper. It became a voice for the voiceless, a champion for civil rights, and a beacon of truth during times when honest representation was scarce.
When mainstream media ignored or distorted the experiences of African Americans, the Tribune created a space where Black voices were not only heard but respected. For 32 years, Rev. Alexander served as editor and publisher, laying the foundation for what would become a long-standing legacy of fair, accurate, and empowering journalism.
Reporting History—and Making It
During the Civil Rights Movement, the Tribune didn’t just report the news—it shaped it. It provided crucial coverage of the struggles and victories of the African American community, offering a platform for activists and change-makers. In a time of widespread misinformation and censorship, the Tribune held the line, becoming a powerful advocate for justice.
The Legacy Continues: Claudia Whitworth’s Leadership
In 1945, Claudia Whitworth returned to Roanoke to support her father’s work at the paper. When he retired in 1971, she purchased the Tribune and carried its mission forward for decades—writing, editing, and mentoring with a tireless dedication to positive community storytelling.
Now over 90 years old, Ms. Whitworth remains actively involved in the paper’s operations alongside her children, Stan and Eva, and her grandchildren. The Roanoke Tribune remains a family-run legacy with deep roots and a clear vision for the future.
A Trusted Voice in Modern Media
Today, the Roanoke Tribune stands as one of the most respected Black-owned newspapers in Virginia. In an age of fast, fragmented media, the Tribune continues to deliver fact-based journalism that informs, educates, and uplifts.
From education and voting rights to economic development and social justice, the Tribune’s stories center on issues that truly matter. It also shines a light on Black-owned businesses, artists, educators, and local leaders—ensuring that our community’s successes are celebrated and remembered.
How You Can Support the Roanoke Tribune
This vital institution depends on community support. Here’s how you can help:
- Read and Subscribe
Stay engaged with news that matters to you. - Share and Promote
Spread the word about the Tribune and its impact. - Contribute and Participate
Write articles, volunteer, or support its mission financially.
Honoring the Past. Informing the Present. Shaping the Future.
The Roanoke Tribune is more than just ink on paper—it’s a lifeline for community journalism, a platform for Black history and progress, and a powerful tool for change. As we honor its incredible legacy, we must also invest in its future.
Because Black history isn’t just in the past—it’s still being written. And thanks to the Roanoke Tribune, our story is in good hands.
📺 Watch the Full Event Video, including Stan Hale’s acceptance speech.
