Curtis Bunn, Reporter: NBC BLK

The Journalism Salute

On this episode, we’re joined by Curtis Bunn. Curtis is based in Atlanta and writes about race for NBC BLK. He’s been a journalist for more than 40 years, among the highlights: as a sportswriter at the New York Daily News and Atlanta Journal-Constitution, then as a writer and deputy editor for Black newspapers, such as the Atlanta Black Star. He’s from Washington D.C.

He’s also had a successful career as a novelist with 10 novels to his credit, as well as co-authoring Say Their Names, How Black Lives Came to Matter in America. And he’s the founder and president of the National Book Club Conference, an event for African-American readers and authors that has been running for more than 20 years.

Curtis spoke about his entry into journalism, his time covering sports, including 17 NBA Finals and a memorable Summer Olympics in Australia. He noted how covering the NBA was a rare beat on which a young Black journalist had advantages over his counterparts. He explained his transition into an area of journalism that could be more impactful.

Curtis spoke about some of the stories he covered. He’s continuously following the issue of reparations. He also shared a story about how Black families are reacting to violence at HBCUs and talked about the experience he and his wife had staying overnight at a former slave plantation.

Curtis’ salute: The National Association of Black Journalists

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