JET Magazine: A Pillar of African American Culture, News, and Empowerment for Over 70 Years

For over seven decades, JET Magazine served as an indispensable chronicle of African American life, culture, news, and achievements in the United States. Founded in 1951 by visionary publisher John H. Johnson, JET emerged as a vital source of information and inspiration, filling a crucial void in mainstream media that often overlooked or misrepresented Black America. More than just a publication, JET became a cultural touchstone, documenting the community’s struggles, triumphs, and daily experiences.

The Genesis of JET Magazine

John H. Johnson, who had previously launched Negro Digest and Ebony magazine, created JET with the desire to symbolize “Black and speed,” reflecting the rapid pace of news and the dynamic nature of the Black community. He envisioned JET as “The Weekly Negro News Magazine,” a pocket-sized publication designed for accessibility and to provide “news coverage on happenings among Negroes all over the U.S.—in entertainment, politics, sports, social events as well as features on unusual personalities, places and events”. This mission aimed to offer Black Americans proper representation in a media landscape that was overwhelmingly Eurocentric and lacked diversity.

Chronicling History and Championing Justice

JET magazine is perhaps most renowned for its pivotal role in documenting the Civil Rights Movement. The magazine provided extensive coverage of landmark events, including the Montgomery bus boycott, the March on Washington, and the activities of leaders like Martin Luther King Jr.. A particularly impactful moment was JET’s fearless and graphic coverage of Emmett Till’s murder in 1955. By publishing the images of his brutalized body, JET brought the horrific reality of racial violence to national consciousness, significantly galvanizing the movement for civil rights and racial justice.

Beyond major movements, JET also shed light on critical social issues and individual struggles. The magazine’s reporting on the death of Ron Settles in police custody in 1981 became a notable part of its legacy. Settles, a young Black college football player, died under suspicious circumstances after being arrested by the Signal Hill Police Department. JET’s coverage, alongside other publications, helped to bring national attention to the case, highlighting the systemic issues of police brutality and demanding justice for his family. The reporting amplified voices advocating for change and underscored the magazine’s commitment to social justice.

A Platform for Black Culture, Entertainment, and Beauty

JET was instrumental in showcasing African American culture, entertainment, and achievements that were often ignored by mainstream outlets. The magazine featured prominent figures from music, film, sports, and politics, offering readers insights into the lives of their idols and celebrating Black excellence. From iconic artists like Aretha Franklin and Muhammad Ali to emerging stars, JET’s covers and articles provided a vital platform for Black celebrities.

The “JET Beauty of the Week” feature was another significant aspect of the magazine, offering a counter-narrative to the prevalent Western-centric beauty standards of the time. This segment showcased African American women, celebrating their diverse beauty and confidence, thereby boosting self-image and representation within the Black community.

Evolution and Enduring Legacy

Throughout its print run, JET Magazine maintained its compact, digest-sized format, making it easily accessible and a constant companion for its readers. While the rise of digital media and changing consumption habits led to the discontinuation of its print edition in June 2014, JET continued its mission as a digital magazine app. In 2016, Johnson Publishing sold JET and its sister publication Ebony to Clear View Group. Today, JET continues its legacy online, aiming to provide content for and by the Black community.

JET Magazine’s impact on African American culture is profound and lasting. It served not only as a news source but as a powerful tool for empowerment, representation, and cultural affirmation, solidifying its place as a critical historical document and a cornerstone of American media history.