Danny Bakewell Sr.

Danny Joseph Bakewell Sr. (born 1946) is a prominent American civil rights activist and business leader known for his significant contributions to media and community empowerment. He is the founder and owner of The Bakewell Company, which encompasses several media outlets, including the iconic Los Angeles Sentinel newspaper and the New Orleans radio station WBOK. Bakewell also currently holds the position of Chairman of the National Newspaper Publishers Association, advocating for the advancement of Black-owned media.

Born and raised in New Orleans, Bakewell graduated from St. Augustine High School, where his foundation for activism began to take shape. He co-founded the National Black United Fund, an organization aimed at promoting social and economic advancement within the African American community. For over three decades, he served as the President of The Brotherhood Crusade, a civil rights organization dedicated to addressing social injustices.

In 2004, Bakewell acquired the Los Angeles Sentinel, the oldest and largest Black newspaper in the city, further expanding his influence in the media landscape. His commitment to community development continued with the purchase of WBOK in 2007, enhancing the representation of Black voices in New Orleans. Bakewell's leadership in the National Newspaper Publishers Association since 2009 underscores his dedication to empowering minority media and preserving its legacy for future generations.