By Kendal Kirkland and Stephon Chapman
Thousands of African-American journalists and media professionals from throughout the nation will make the scene in San Diego, as they attend NABJ’s 35th National Convention and Job Fair. This is the first gathering of the organization in California since 1990.
The annual conventions are usually held on the east coast where the majority of NABJ’s members reside.
A few members on the board of directors advocated bringing the convention to San Diego. These members include Jerry McCormick, founding president of the San Diego Association of Black Journalists; and Russell LaCour, long-time president of NABJ/Tulsa.
McCormick and LaCour voted in 2004 to host the convention in San Diego. They supported this city because of everything it has to offer, including its excellent weather conditions and its sizable population of people of color.
”Excellent city, weather and people,” said LaCour, a copy editor for the Tulsa World newspaper.
Both men agreed that this convention allows men and women from throughout the nation to attain many business opportunities and network with individuals like themselves.
McCormick said increasing diversity in newsrooms and networking are the goals of NABJ. He said convention attendees should lead by example and inspire others.
“Network, network, network,” said McCormick, associate producer for KNSD, the local NBC affiliate. “Talk to everyone. Everyone is someone. Sell you, be you, do you.”
The convention, being held at the Manchester Grand Hyatt, runs from July 28 through Aug. 1.
