Public Narrative

It’s an honor and a privilege to celebrate journalists, media makers, storytellers and civic leaders whose work serves to change the narrative.

Congratulations, Denise Zaccardi of Community TV Network, and Francia Garcia Hernandez of Block Club Chicago! Thank you for your dedication to elevating the voices of our neighbors and using your platforms to advance Chicago communities that are under-resourced and under-heard.

Join us in celebrating their exceptional work at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 14, 2026 at the Chicago Cultural Center. Secure your seat for this celebration of Chicago journalism and learn how to invest in narrative change!
Visit bit.ly/CMA2026-Tickets 🎟️

It’s time to get your tickets! Join us for Public Narrative’s 31st Annual Community Media Awards on Thursday, May 14, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. at the Claudia Cassidy Theater at the Chicago Cultural Center.

This year’s celebration promises to be our most impactful yet, honoring the journalists, media makers, and storytellers who are shifting narratives and uplifting Chicago’s diverse communities. From investigative reporting that holds power accountable to community storytelling that centers lived experiences, we’re celebrating the voices that make our media ecosystem stronger.

Join us for this special evening, secure your tickets now at publicnarrative.org/awards, and join us in recognizing the extraordinary work happening across our city’s media landscape.

Interested in sponsoring this celebration of community journalism? We’d love to partner with you.

Visit us online or reach out to learn about available opportunities!

💻 PublicNarrative.org/Awards

As we prepare to celebrate excellence in journalism and civic leadership, we would like to introduce you to three of our 2026 Community Media Award winners, each embodying the profound impact of storytelling and civic engagement.

The Dr. Timuel D. Black Award for Civic Engagement, launched in 2025, honors Dr. Black’s remarkable legacy and reflects his and Studs Terkel’s shared values: a commitment to elevating community narratives, engaging in active citizenship, and building a more just and fair society.

Congratulations, Charles Preston of Injustice Watch, and the Coalition for Spiritual and Public Leadership.

Join us in celebrating their exceptional work at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 14, 2026 at the Chicago Cultural Center. Secure your seat for this celebration of Chicago journalism and learn how to invest in narrative change! Visit bit.ly/CMA2026-Tickets