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| The Washington Association of Black Journalists (WABJ) is deeply saddened by the passing of longtime journalist James L. Wright Jr., a three-decade writer for Black newspapers such as The AFRO-American and The Washington Informer as well as mainstream newspapers such as The Washington Post until his death at the age of 62. Wright died of natural causes in his Seat Pleasant home, according to The Informer, the newspaper in which he was most associated. The proud Texan became a pillar in the Washington, D.C. community. Wright covered business, politics and pivotal moments that shaped our city. DC Mayor Muriel Bower said, “I knew him from my earliest days in government as a strong, fair, and honest writer who cared deeply about his city. Most of all, he loved Washingtonians and telling the stories of the least, the lost, and the left out. His connection to his readers was unparalleled.” Many of DC’s political leaders on social media remember the dignity Wright put into his work, and the impactful stories he told. Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton wrote on Facebook, “James interviewed me many times over the years as he covered the District with uncommon depth, fairness, and genuine respect for his fellow DC residents.” Councilmember Janeese Lewis George wrote on X, “He was an extraordinary journalist who truly cared about centering DC history and local stories.” Councilmember Kenyan McDuffie wrote, “James L. Wright Jr.’s voice was a trusted mirror and a steady bridge across the city. His journalism meant a great deal to our city and its residents, informing daily life, building trust, and sharing the stories that uplifted the very best of our city.” Wright’s impactful work reached global audiences as he sat down with foreign leaders, including Moammar Gaddafi of Libya and Thabo Mbeki of South Africa. His work expanded across the United States, and all over the world including Afghanistan, Ghana, South Africa, Libya, Zimbabwe, Italy, and the United Kingdom. At WABJ’s 2025 Special Honors & Scholarship Gala, WABJ President Phil Lewis shouted out Wright for his efforts in lending a helping hand with the gala. Phil Lewis said, “James Wright was a fierce advocate for journalists. He loved this city and his work. He will be deeply missed.” Wright joined Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated, Eta Gamma Chapter at Prairie View A&M University in 1984. He became a life member of Alpha Phi Alpha, and served through the Mu Lambda Chapter. He formerly served as vice president of the Seat Pleasant City Council, and was the church historian at Asbury United Methodist Church in Washington, D.C. ### Founded in 1975, the Washington Association of Black Journalists is an organization for African-American journalists, journalism professors, public relations professionals and student journalists in the Washington, D.C., metro area. WABJ provides members with ongoing professional education opportunities and advocates for greater diversification of the profession. |
Roy Lewis, relaxing later with his NABJ Legacy Award.
Drums in the Global Village 