The Root Under New Ownership: Does it Mean Increasing Diversity of Thought in Media?
- BPALiveWire
- Oct 4
- 2 min read
WASHINGTON, DC / OCTOBER 4 / BPALiveWire - The Root, the influential digital outlet focused on Black news and culture, has returned to Black ownership for the first time since its founding in 2008, following its acquisition by Democratic political strategist Ashley Allison through her company, Watering Hole Media.
The deal, announced Wednesday, marks the end of G/O Media's stewardship of the site, which had drawn criticism from some in the Black media community for its corporate ownership structure. Allison, a CNN political commentator and former senior adviser in the Obama-Biden White House, described the purchase as a commitment to amplifying authentic voices in Black America.
The return to Black ownership has been met with widespread celebration with some hailing the the move on social media as a "historic" step forward. At BPALiveWire, we join in this congratulations. Unlike many in conservative media circles who dismiss diversity initiatives outright, we staunchly endorse the value of diverse media ownership. Yet, in contrast to our liberal peers who often prioritize demographic checkboxes, we emphasize ideological diversity as the true cornerstone of a healthy press.
The Root is likely to retain its left-leaning editorial voice, even as surveys indicate Black America increasingly leans toward the political center and center-right.
BPALiveWire’s commitment to owning its right-of-center stance echoes journalist Megyn Kelly’s approach, as she shared in an interview with Lulu Garcia-Navarro. Kelly, reflecting on her public endorsement of Donald Trump, said owning one's bias builds trust: "Now everybody has zero doubt about where I stand and they can filter everything I say through the appropriate lens." In a fractured media environment, such candor fosters dialogue rather than division.
BPALiveWire exists because the marketplace of ideas thrives on this variety. Black America is no monolith, and amplifying a spectrum of viewpoints ensures robust representation. As a nimble, independent operation, BPALiveWire invites readers to join us on the ground floor. Our subscriber list grows daily, fueling coverage that challenges assumptions and champions ideological pluralism. Support us today to help shape tomorrow's conversations.
