About the Indianapolis Recorder Newspaper

Publication: Indianapolis Recorder Newspaper
Year Founded: 1895
Founding Publishers: George P. Stewart and Will Porter
Legacy Publisher: William G. Mays
Current Leadership: Robert Shegog, President & CEO

Overview

Founded in 1895 as a two-page church bulletin by George P. Stewart and Will Porter, the Indianapolis Recorder Newspaper has grown into one of the most enduring and influential African American newspapers in the United States. Initially created to serve Indianapolis’ Black church community, the publication quickly evolved into a weekly newspaper in 1897, setting a precedent for journalistic excellence and community advocacy.

By 1899, with Stewart as sole publisher, the Recorder became known for its deep commitment to local news, advancing beyond national competitors like The Freeman and Colored World. The Recorder has provided a trusted platform for marginalized voices for more than a century through focused reporting, editorials, and community contributions.

Historical Significance

In the early 20th century, the Recorder addressed issues such as housing, education, and public health, while championing anti-lynching laws and voting rights.
During both World Wars, the Recorder advocated for African American enlistment while promoting the Double V Campaign—victory abroad and at home.
During the Civil Rights era, it covered the movements and legacies of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X, Thurgood Marshall, and others.
As a community-focused publication, it consistently spotlighted Black institutions like Crispus Attucks High School and the Madam Walker Manufacturing Company.

Milestones and Movement

The Indianapolis Recorder Newspaper has shaped civic and cultural life in Indiana and beyond for over a century. Its pages have documented movements, mentored generations of journalists, and served as a mirror and a megaphone for the issues that matter most to its readers. Key milestones in the Recorder’s history include:

Championing Civil Rights: From the early 1900s through the civil rights era, the Recorder stood at the forefront of advocacy journalism calling for anti-lynching legislation, fair housing practices, educational equity, and voting rights. The paper gave voice to the voiceless while spotlighting national figures such as W.E.B. Du Bois, Mary McLeod Bethune, and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Mobilizing the Community: The Recorder has consistently used its platform to mobilize civic action, encouraging readers to register to vote, attend town halls, support Black-owned businesses, and engage in the democratic process. During World Wars I and II, the Recorder promoted the Double V Campaign: victory against fascism abroad and racism at home.
Preserving Cultural Identity: The paper has long championed cultural pride and creative expression, spotlighting historic institutions such as Crispus Attucks High School, the Madam Walker Legacy Center, and Black churches as pillars of strength. It has covered the rise of Black art, music, literature, and entrepreneurship, ensuring the cultural contributions of its community are recorded and respected.
Shaping Public Policy Discourse: The Recorder has consistently advocated for equitable policies in public education, healthcare access, criminal justice reform, and economic development. Editorials and op-eds from the Recorder have helped shift conversations in boardrooms, classrooms, and statehouses.
Mentorship and Pipeline Building: Beyond reporting, the Recorder has nurtured young journalists and future leaders through decades of internship and mentorship programs, culminating in the formal launch of the JAWS (Journalism and Writing Seminars) program 2012. This initiative has become a vital pipeline for training high school students in writing, research, and responsible storytelling.
Navigating Historic Transitions: The Recorder has survived and adapted through the Great Depression, Jim Crow segregation, urban renewal, the digital revolution, and the COVID-19 pandemic, remaining a resilient institution committed to public service journalism.

As the longest-standing publication in Indiana, the Indianapolis Recorder Newspaper is more than a newspaper—it is a living archive of the struggles, triumphs, and transformation of an evolving community.

Modern Leadership & Transformation

In 1990, William G. Mays, the visionary founder of Mays Chemical Company, acquired the Recorder to preserve its legacy. Under his guidance, the paper underwent significant technological upgrades, strengthening its role as a trusted institution.

In 1998, Mays’ niece Carolene Mays became Publisher and General Manager. She ushered in a new era marked by:

Structural and financial restructuring
Upgraded editorial quality and visual design
The launch of Recorder On Air Report (ROAR)
Community service outreach and media innovation

In 2010, Shannon Williams became President and General Manager, solidifying her reputation as a dynamic media leader. Her contributions include:

Transformed Business Operations: Modernized internal systems and improved financial and editorial infrastructure to ensure sustainability.
Founded Recorder Media Group: Expanded the brand’s influence by launching the Indiana Minority Business Magazine and other media platforms.
Established Recorder Advisory Council: Created a cross-sector council of leaders to guide strategy and community alignment.
Amplified Civic Engagement and Youth Outreach: Deepened impact through Recorder Charities and initiatives focused on youth journalism, voter engagement, and community empowerment.
Enhanced Civic and Youth Engagement: Deepened impact through Recorder Charities, voter initiatives, and the creation of the Journalism and Writing Seminars (JAWS) program in 2012, a youth development initiative designed to introduce high school students to the principles of journalism, writing, ethics, and media literacy.

In 2018, Robert Shegog was appointed President and CEO of Recorder Media Group. Under his leadership, the Recorder has experienced a renaissance—doubling its mission, investing in journalistic talent, and leading with innovation. His achievements include:

Over 100 journalism awards in five years
Expansion of newsroom staff and investigative capacity
Launch of Minority Business Review, a national publication
Development of digital-first strategies and multimedia platforms
Strategic partnerships with civic, nonprofit, and corporate organizations across Indiana

Shegog has positioned the Recorder as not only a historical institution but a future media company.

Awards & Recognition

The Recorder has received numerous honors for journalistic excellence and community leadership, including:

National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) – General Excellence, Best Layout & Design
Society of Professional Journalists – Investigative Reporting, Community Impact Awards
Hoosier State Press Association – Multiple reporting, design, and photography awards
Indiana Journalism Award (2000)
National Enshrinement Award (2001) – Inducted into the National Black Archives
2018–2025: Over 100 awards for reporting, design, health equity, business coverage, and civic storytelling

The Recorder Today

Weekly Reach: Over 120,000 readers through print, web, social media, and audio platforms
Programs: Journalism and Writing Seminars (JAWS) for youth, Recorder Charities, ROAR segments
Impact Areas: Health, education, environment, civic justice, culture, entrepreneurship
Audience: Engaged, multigenerational, and deeply rooted in Indiana’s Black communities

Vision for the Future

As the world of journalism evolves, the Recorder remains dedicated to preserving its legacy while pushing forward with innovation:

Digital Expansion: Enhanced mobile, video, and social storytelling
Youth Investment: Hands-on training and mentorship through Recorder Charities and JAWS
Media Partnerships: Collaborations with regional and national media for broader reach
Community-Centered Journalism: Continued commitment to empowering underserved voices

Contact Us

Address: 2901 N. Tacoma Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46218
Phone: (317) 924-5143
Fax: (317) 924-5148
Email: newsroom@indyrecorder.com
Website: www.indianapolisrecorder.com