Ethel Payne was a pioneering African American journalist known as the "First Lady of the Black Press." She was born on August 14, 1911, in Chicago, Illinois, and grew up during a time when opportunities for black women in journalism were limited. Despite facing discrimination and marginalization, Payne persevered and became a trailblazer in the field of journalism.

Payne began her career in journalism in the 1940s, working for the Chicago Defender, a prominent African American newspaper. She covered important events such as the Civil Rights Movement, the Montgomery Bus Boycott, and the desegregation of schools in the South. Payne's reporting focused on issues of racial injustice and inequality, bringing attention to the struggles of African Americans in a way that mainstream media often ignored.

In 1951, Payne became the first African American woman to work as a radio and television commentator for a national network when she joined CBS. Throughout her career, she continued to break barriers and challenge the status quo, using her platform to advocate for civil rights and social justice.

Ethel Payne's courageous reporting and commitment to truth-telling paved the way for future generations of Black journalists. She was a fearless and dedicated journalist who used her voice to uplift and empower her community. Payne's contributions to the field of journalism and the Civil Rights Movement have left a lasting impact on American history.