WASHINGTON, D.C. — As the 2026 midterm elections approach, the fight over who shapes the political narrative—and who gets heard—is already underway.
On Thursday, September 17, URL Media, a national network of multicultural publishers, journalists and creators, along with support from National Community Reinvestment Coalition (NCRC) and the Washington Association of Black Journalists (WABJ) will convene leaders across media, policy, advocacy, business, philanthropy and civic life for “Reclaiming Our Narrative: Independent Media and the Road to the Midterms.” The event will take place from 8:00–10:00 a.m. at the National Association of Broadcasters, 1 M Street SE, Washington, D.C.
The breakfast reception and panel discussion, held during Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Annual Legislative Conference week, will examine the critical role trusted Black-owned and independent media play in informing communities, cutting through misinformation and ensuring that the issues most important to the people are part of the political conversation.
As the Black press approaches its 200th anniversary in 2027, URL Media will lead a roundtable discussion moderated by Sara Lomax, President of URL Media and CEO and President of WURD Radio, Philadelphia’s only Black talk radio station. This dynamic conversation will dive into this pivotal moment to consider the future of Black media and the infrastructure needed to ensure trusted, community-rooted journalism can continue to serve its audiences.
This roundtable discussion will include:
- Alexis McGill Johnson, President & CEO of Planned Parenthood
- Don Lemon, Host, The Don Lemon Show
- Errin Haines, NABJ President and Editor-at-Large and founder of The 19th
- Joy Reid, Host, The Joy Reid Show
- Justin Pearson, Tennessee State Representative
- Lauren Williams, Co-Founder/CEO, Capital B
These panelists will explore:
- How trusted Black media and community creators can put affordability and everyday concerns at the center of the political conversation.
- How independent media can cut through misinformation and political noise with credible, community-rooted information.
- How campaigns, policymakers and institutions can move beyond transactional outreach to genuinely listen to communities.
- What it will take to turn trusted engagement into meaningful civic action.
Media interested in attending or requesting interviews should contact:
Kirstin Garriss, URL Media, PR and Communications
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About URL Media:
URL Media is transforming the media landscape by building a scalable, sustainable ecosystem that empowers trusted publishers and creators serving Black and Brown communities, strengthens their capacity, and directs investment and opportunity to these voices central to shaping our culture and democracy. Founded in 2021 by media trailblazers Sara Lomax and S. Mitra Kalita, URL Media delivers authentic reach and lasting impact for brands, institutions, and audiences ready to engage meaningfully with these communities. For more information, visit url-media.com.
About the National Community Reinvestment Coalition:
National Community Reinvestment Coalition (NCRC) is a national advocacy organization and network of more than 700 community-based organizations working to advance wealth equity by improving how capital flows into communities while strengthening local power and self-determination.
Washington Association of Black Journalists (WABJ):
Washington Association of Black Journalists (WABJ) is an organization of more than 500 journalists, journalism professors, public relations professionals and student journalists in the Washington, D.C., metro area.
