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Celebrating a Legacy: The Atlanta Voice Shines Bright
In a vibrant ceremony beneath the sun at Roosevelt Hall, Janis Ware, the long-standing publisher of The Atlanta Voice, was honored at the City of Atlanta’s Salute to Legacy luncheon. This event celebrated local businesses that have become integral parts of Atlanta's cultural and economic landscape, many of which have thrived for over 30 years.
The significance of this event is underscored by the challenging environments faced by small businesses, especially during times of economic uncertainty. As Mayor Andre Dickens aptly noted, "Your longevity brings economic stability to our neighborhoods." It’s a recognition that goes beyond mere survival; it celebrates the adaptability and impact these businesses have on the community.
Founded in 1966 by Janis's father, J. Lowell Ware, The Atlanta Voice has served as a vital platform promoting the dignity, efficacy, and empowerment of the African American community. Under Janis's stewardship since 1991, the publication has adjusted to the digital age, ensuring its relevance and effectiveness in delivering news and advocating for local voices. "It’s not easy to make it 30 years; it’s even more of an accomplishment to get to 60," Janis remarked, highlighting her pride in the publication’s rich history.
A Tribute to Atlanta’s Legacy Businesses
As part of the Atlanta Local Legacy Program, which now boasts over 400 members, the event honored landmark establishments instrumental in weaving the tapestry of the Atlanta community. Among the inaugural awardees were popular local spots like Busy Bee Cafe and Mr. Everything Cafe, which have also become community staples over the years.
At the luncheon, Invest Atlanta President Eloisa Klementich presented each recognized business with the Atlanta Legacy Coin, a symbolic gesture celebrating their contributions to the city. Klementich stated, "Longevity in business is not just about profit; it’s about purpose. It’s about people and preservation." This encapsulates what the legacy program seeks to achieve: honoring and uplifting those businesses that have shaped Atlanta’s history.
Commitment to Community Development
Ware's impact extends far beyond the newsroom. Her dual role as Executive Director of the SUMMECH Development Corporation underscores her commitment to urban renewal and affordable housing, particularly in Atlanta's Mechanicsville neighborhood. Over 1,800 affordable housing units have been developed under her guidance, transforming many families' lives and fostering a stable community.
Her leadership journey serves as an inspiration for many aspiring leaders. As one of the first African American women to graduate from the University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business, she shattered barriers and established a legacy of mentorship and empowerment for future generations, emphasizing the importance of community connection.
Janis Ware: A Beacon of Change
Janis Ware’s accolades extend to being the recipient of the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) Lifetime Achievement Award for 2025. This prestigious honor not only recognizes her exceptional leadership in journalism but also highlights her unwavering dedication to uplifting marginalized voices in media.
“I am deeply humbled to receive this recognition,” Janis shared, acknowledging her remarkable team and the community that supports The Atlanta Voice’s mission. This acknowledgment is particularly poignant during a time when the role of local journalism is critical for social justice and change, inspiring others to action.
Your Role in Supporting Local Legacy
Celebrations like the Salute to Legacy luncheon remind us of the essential role that local businesses play in shaping our experiences and livability. By supporting them, you contribute to the resilience of your neighborhood’s economic landscape. Building connections with these businesses encourages communal investment and supports a thriving local economy.
The ongoing journey of The Atlanta Voice exemplifies how dedicated leadership and community involvement can lead to transformative change. As Janis Ware continues to advocate for community empowerment and equitable representation, it serves as a clarion call to everyone to engage with and support local businesses that have stood the test of time.
Let’s uplift our community’s legacy; celebrate, support, and become part of the thread that makes Atlanta unique. Your engagement not only preserves history; it champions the future.
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