Damaso Reyes: Executive & Investigative Editor, New York Amsterdam News

In this episode, we're joined by Damaso Reyes. Damaso is both the executive and investigative editor at New York Amsterdam News, one of the oldest Black weeklies in the United States.

Damaso has nearly 30 years of experience in journalism. Last year, he won the National Association of Black Journalists Ida B Wells Award. That's given to someone providing distinguished leadership in increasing access and opportunities for Black journalists and improving the coverage of communities of color in American media.

Damaso discussed his early newspaper influences from growing up in Brooklyn, particularly in how he felt his neighborhood was not covered fairly. He shared his interest and history with photojournalism and international news coverage.

He also explained the formation of Amsterdam News' investigative unit, Blacklight, and talked about series he'd worked on related to the aftermath of gun violence and also to bail reform. He spoke about the challenges of covering the city and his desire to affect change.

Damaso's salute: Ida B. Wells and the NABJ.

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