Tri-State Defender

https://tri-statedefender.com
Screenshot of the Tri-State Defender website
The Tri-State Defender is a historic African American newspaper based in Memphis, Tennessee. Founded in 1951, it has covered social, political, economic, and cultural issues affecting Black communities in the Mid-South region. The publication reports on local government, education, healthcare, business, entertainment, faith communities, and community organizations. Throughout its history, it has documented major events and developments involving African American communities in Memphis and surrounding areas. In addition to news coverage, the newspaper publishes opinion pieces, profiles, and feature stories. It distributes content through digital platforms and print editions. The Tri-State Defender continues to serve as a source of community journalism and cultural documentation in the region.

Source: SembraMedia

Last updated date: September 2026

Location:
Memphis, United States
Year the organization
started publishing:
1951
Languages:
English
Type of coverage:
Local
Area of coverage:
Memphis, TN

Content

Type of content produced by theme:
Politics
Sports
Lifestyle
Entertainment and culture
Law and crime
Society and human rights
Entrepreneurship
Ethnic minorities
Journalism genres:
Interviews and reporting
Opinion
Narrative journalism
Journalism coverage types and techniques:
Crowdsourcing
Engaged, community-driven or participatory journalism
Explanatory journalism
Tech platforms and other mediums used:
Website
Print

Management and team

Founders

Female:
0
Male:
1
Founders:
John H. Sengstacke
Directors:

Team

Full-time employees:
0
Part-time employees:
0
Freelancers or consultants:
0
Volunteers:
0

Business structure and revenue sources

Organization tax status:
For-profit
All revenue sources reported by media leaders:
Advertising
Local advertising sold by own team
National advertising sold by own team
Sponsorships on social media
The primary source of revenue reported by media leaders:
Advertising

Why is this profile included?

This media outlet is part of our directory because it meets SembraMedia’s inclusion criteria: it produces original content, serves the public interest, and works with independence and transparency. This profile was developed using information provided directly by the media outlet, through surveys or interviews. We aim to keep the information current, but SembraMedia does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness, and recommends verifying any key details with the media organization.

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