At the start of the new year, we believe it is important to return to our foundation and clearly restate the mission of the Richmond Free Press. In doing so, we remind ourselves and our readers of the principles that guide our journalism — and invite the public to hold us accountable to them. 

The editorial below was written by our founder Ray Boone and remains a clear expression of why this newspaper exists. While much has changed in the years since it was first published, the values and commitments it outlines continue to guide our work. For that reason, it appears here with only minimal editing for clarity and context, including the removal of a reference to a “monopolistic daily press,” which no longer exists. 

Our mission 

As we launch Richmond’s newest publishing venture with this inaugural edition of the Richmond Free Press, we think it is our duty to spell out our mission for our readers and for all of Richmond. 

First, we think it should be understood that the Richmond Free Press is a Black-owned newspaper with a strong belief in taking reasoned actions to meeting the opportunities and pressing challenges that confront the African American community. We do not subscribe to the notion of moaning and groaning about problems. We strongly believe in ourselves and our ability to solve problems. It is this outlook that gave birth to the Richmond Free Press … as well as its mission. 

Richmond desperately needs a strong gust of fresh air to vigorously fan the expression of ideas about public policy and, in the process, to encourage wide-open, uninhibited debate. We will employ all resources at our disposal to meet that need. 

Simply put, the mission of the Richmond Free Press is to empower its readers. We think this mission is extremely important at this time when the economy is inflicting widespread human pain across the state and nation. 

We plan to empower our readers by contributing to a greater degree of balance in news reporting and commentary in the Richmond area; and, simultaneously, to educate our readers about important issues touching their lives and to motivate them to be fully heard on these issues. 

It is our view that the lack of respect for the First Amendment has frustrated the expression in Richmond — especially in the Black community — and that the entire community has suffered by failing to allow society to benefit from thoughts and ideas of the people. The objective of the Free Press is to work mightily to reverse this counterproductive situation. 

The Free Press will not shy away from the hard problems — including racism, holding politicians (Black and white) accountable to the people, and what needs to be done — immediately — to revitalize Downtown Richmond. 

The Richmond Free Press believes that the cause of racial justice can be served best if society has a better understanding of the entire complex picture of race relations (the good and the bad, the facts and the distortions, yesterday’s mistakes and today’s solutions). The Free Press will focus reliably on the status of racial justice in Richmond. This focus will be mindful of the progress that has been made against racism, will report with keen perception and sensitivity on racial problems and offer potential solutions. The result, we believe, will be a Richmond armed with enlightenment and thus in a better position to build a brighter future for our city. 

The economy is inflicting heavy damage on the majority of our people. Therefore, the Free Press is obligated to ask tough questions of politicians and other policymakers about what they’re doing, how they’re doing it and why they’re doing it. These questions will be boldly asked with the objective of informing the people and guaranteeing that work is being done to relieve suffering and increase the quality of life. The Free Press will give credit where it’s due, giving special recognition to those who demonstrate a clear commitment to fairness and justice. We will be no less assertive in standing against evil. We take seriously the journalistic credo of comforting the afflicted. 

The rot of Downtown Richmond must be dramatically cured, not eroded. Downtown is the heart of Central Virginia. A coalition of Black and white people, along with city and state officials, is seemingly working earnestly to revitalize Downtown, giving hope that Richmond will capitalize on its many unrecognized riches to become a major Southern city. We care about all matters that relate to Richmond today and tomorrow. All of our lives are interwoven. We all, whether we like it or not, are in the same proverbial boat. We must work together — or continue to sink. 

The Richmond Free Press, in the quest of its mission, will be guided by its commitment to the eternal principles of truth, integrity, free debate and justice. We will also place high value on quality. These principles will guide this newspaper’s editorial policy. These principles will also guide this conduct in all of its operations. 

When we fail to live up to standards that we set for ourselves and which we think you agree with, we will acknowledge this shortcoming and will work to take corrective action to maintain your trust. When we make good on our word, your support and trust will be a source of inspiration and pride for everyone associated with the Richmond Free Press. 

We thank everyone who has wished us well as we begin this exciting venture. We assure you that your trust has not been misplaced. We will do the right things.