YOU! HAVE THE POWER | Good Black News: How we express, impress, and address

BY DR. ELLEN W. BROWN

As I began writing this month’s column, I knew I wanted to share good news. I also knew my readers would welcome good news because positive thoughts and uplifting messages are always worth celebrating. 

As I reflected on that idea, my mind went back to a phrase that has stayed with me since “The Wiz” premiered on Broadway and later became the beloved 1978 film: “Don’t nobody bring me no bad news!” 

Think back to where you were in 1978 — if you were around then. For many of us, “The Wiz” was more than entertainment. It celebrated Black culture, creativity, and resilience while reminding us that hope can triumph over hardship. That message remains just as powerful today. 

With that spirit in mind, I want to focus on the importance of Good Black News. Too often, the stories that dominate headlines focus on struggle, conflict, and division. While we must acknowledge the realities and burdens that have been placed upon our communities, we must also recognize our ability to persevere, create, build, and inspire. Those stories deserve to be told just as loudly. 

People often say history repeats itself, and I believe there is truth in that. However, each generation experiences familiar challenges through a different lens. Every generation brings new ideas, new interpretations, and new expectations. As today’s voices take center stage, they naturally shape the conversation according to their own experiences. That is not something to fear — it is something to celebrate. 

So, what’s going on? 

Our words, our music, and our art continue to emerge from our neighborhoods, churches, classrooms, studios, and communities with authenticity and cultural pride. Every musical genre has its own language and style of expression. Not every style speaks to everyone, and that’s perfectly fine. The beauty of Black culture is its diversity. There is room for every voice and every rhythm. 

Our music has always documented our journey. It celebrates our victories, mourns our losses, fuels our movements, and inspires change. Through music and storytelling, we listen, interpret, understand, and share. These expressions help define who we are and where we are going.

`Never underestimate the power of your own voice. The stories you tell, the encouragement you give, and the positive news you share all strengthen our collective spirit. Good Black News is not simply about reporting positive events — it is about recognizing the resilience, creativity, and excellence that exist throughout our communities every day.

You have the power. Share your story. Celebrate someone else’s success. Lift a neighbor. Encourage a young person. Together, we can continue expressing, impressing, and addressing the issues that matter while making sure Good Black News remains part of our everyday conversation. 

Sharing strengthens our collective voice. We welcome your ideas, questions, and stories to enhance the Voice. Send to me at ebrown.nci@gmail.com