Legal efforts to reinstate ousted Black Alabama mayor and council move forward

About This Project

Summary

When national media descended on Newbern, Alabama, to tell the story of a small town's first Black mayor being ousted by its predominantly white power structure, the story was done in true parachute journalism style – producers swooped in, scheduled a few interviews, then disappeared. Our approach was to research, file records requests, interview the involved parties and figure out how this happened. A year later, our story showcased the failures and negligence that led to this injustice.

Goals & Objectives

There were three main goals. One was to highlight challenges Black voters face even when the law is in their favor. Second, we sought to understand how a lame-duck council could seize power and obstruct the transition to a new administration. Third, we hoped to see Mayor Braxton restored to office.

Results & Impact

Before our first story ran, review copies were sent to all quoted parties, including the Alabama Secretary of State, the state's League of Municipalities and other officials. Before the second story, the defendants in Mayor Braxton's lawsuit changed their tune as they sought to settle instead.