Journalists have the power to influence society. But according to four back journalists, this power will never be wielded if students fail to dive into the reporting world early on.
This point was driven home at a Wednesday forum sponsored by the National Association of Black Journalists and Phi Beta Sigma fraternity.
Panelists included Fox 59 PM anchor Cheryl Adams, WTHR crime beat reporter Steve Jefferson, Tony Lamont of WTLC 106.7 and Shannon Williams, an Indianapolis Recorder editor.
"The beauty of having diversity in the newsroom is we can have input on how stories are covered," Adams said. "It's important for us (black reporters) to speak up and have something to say."
Jefferson urged black students to get involved with the media.
"You got to prepare yourself before graduation," Jefferson said. "If you're a junior or a senior and haven't had an internship yet, shame on you!"
Networking is also key, Lamont said.
"In this business, it's not only our skills (that are important) but who you know," Lamont said. "Don't be afraid to take that internship, even if it's unpaid. Your payment comes in learning."
The panelists agreed the reward of working hard to establish a career early comes when a job is attained and the influence on society can be demonstrated.
Jefferson recounted a story that illustrated to him this influence.
He said he once covered a story about a man who was killed in a hit and run accident. Jefferson said he went to the victim's family and asked the mother of the victim to go on camera and ask the hit-and-runner to come out. Moved by the the mother's tears, the woman turned herself into the police later that night.
Even though the panelists have already reached their seats of influence, they still strive to help those just starting out.
"Giving back is one of the main goals of the NABJ," said Jefferson. "There's nothing more rewarding than seeing a young journalist make it."
All panelists said they assist beginning reporters in many ways, from reviewing video clips and reading articles to volunteering to be references for resumes and speaking to schools.
"I speak to 600,000 students a year," Lamont said. "It's our responsibility to give back, and hearing our stories (of succeeding as a black journalist) lets you know you can do anything."
Williams said she works a writing seminar for high school students that also offers internship opportunities.
It's important that students know the possibilities that are available, said S'Neta Benefield, president of the Ball State chapter of National Association of Black Journalists.
"Most people have no clue how to get their foot in the door," said Benefield. "We thought that bringing these people here would show them what to do."
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