Hudson Valley Press

The Hudson Valley Press is a long-standing weekly newspaper dedicated to covering minority communities across New York’s Hudson Valley region, including Orange, Dutchess, Westchester, Rockland, and Ulster counties. Established in Newburgh in 1983 as The Hudson Valley Black Press, it was founded to fill a critical gap in local media coverage of African American communities and issues. Founder Chuck Stewart Sr., a veteran radio station manager, created the publication after recognizing the absence of culturally relevant reporting for Black audiences. Despite doubts from investors and industry observers, the newspaper quickly gained readership, evolving from a monthly publication to a weekly newspaper within its first year. In 2001, the publication was renamed The Hudson Valley Press to reflect a broader, more inclusive mission while maintaining its commitment to reporting on African American culture and community life. The newspaper now serves a diverse readership, particularly African American and Latino communities, and promotes unity and cross-cultural engagement throughout the region. Under Stewart’s continued leadership as executive editor and publisher, the outlet has received numerous civic and community awards recognizing its positive social impact. With over 40 years of continuous publication, The Hudson Valley Press remains an important voice for representation, diversity, and community-centered journalism in the Hudson Valley.