Many in the journalism industry are mourning the loss of James Washington, the president and general manager of The Atlanta Voice and publisher emeritus of The Dallas Weekly.
Washington, 73, passed away on Tuesday, April 2. His wife, Janis L. Ware, is the publisher of The Atlanta Voice.
The Atlanta Voice is one of the founding members of Word In Black, a groundbreaking collaborative of 10 legendary Black publishers.
Tributes to Washington were published across the industry, including from the National Association of Black Journalists. Washington was awarded the 2019 NABJ Legacy award.
In an article on The Atlanta Voice, Editor Donnell Suggs chronicles Washington’s career spanning four decades, including roles in public relations and serving on many boards.
An editorial from the Dallas Weekly said that Washington was one-of-a-kind.
“His wit, incredible storytelling and extensive business acumen made him one of the best – from public relations, corporate communications, and advertising, to ethnic marketing, broadcast and print news, and publishing,” the article said.
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens was also quoted in an article on WXIA on Washington’s passing.
On Twitter, many in the industry shared their condolences.
Tracie Powell, founder of The Pivot Fund, worked for Washington in Dallas years ago and also shared a tribute.
“Like countless other Black journalists, I found solace and support within the walls of The Dallas Weekly, where Washington provided a platform and a sanctuary to hone my craft,” Powell wrote.
In lieu of flowers, the family of Washington is asking that donations be made to The Atlanta Voice in his name.
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