Ashley Allison Buys The Root in Historic Deal
It seems like it’s been a while, but nonetheless, Black Girl Magic has struck again. Ashley Allison has announced the acquisition of The Root through her company, Watering Hole Media.
The deal marks the return of the platform to Black ownership after more than ten years under corporate control.
The Root was co-founded in 2008 by Harvard professor Henry Louis Gates Jr. and media executive Donald E. Graham. It quickly became a top digital space for Black news, culture, and commentary.
The Root’s Journey and Corporate Ownership
Originally launched as a modern-day Black newspaper, The Root built a reputation for honest reporting and in-depth analysis. It changed hands several times—from Univision in 2015 to G/O Media in 2019.
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During its time at G/O Media, the platform faced staff disputes and internal challenges. Still, CEO Jim Spanfeller praised it as a “powerful and important voice in Black America.”
Who Is Ashley Allison?
Allison is a political strategist who served under President Obama and was a top advisor for the Biden-Harris 2020 campaign. She is also a CNN commentator known for advocating racial justice and equity.
In 2024, she launched Watering Hole Media to amplify diverse voices at the intersection of politics and culture. Acquiring The Root is her first major move.
Vision for The Root’s Future
“This isn’t about making more content but about making meaning of this moment.”
“The Root is not going to shy away from the hard stories, the hard questions, and the hard answers.”
Allison plans to expand The Root through video content, live events, and collaborations. Her goal is to restore its role as a bold and independent voice for Black America.
Why The Root’s Ownership Matters Now
This acquisition arrives during a time of rising censorship, political division, and attacks on Black history. Allison’s move is about narrative control and cultural empowerment.
Restoring Black ownership ensures the stories, perspectives, and voices of Black communities stay front and center in national conversations.
Henry Louis Gates Jr. Applauds the Move
“I am so very proud of Ashley Allison for leading The Root into its next exciting chapter.”
With Black ownership restored, The Root is set to reclaim its mission and legacy under visionary leadership.
Public Reaction to the Acquisition
The news has been met with praise across social media and within the journalism world. Many view the deal as a step forward for independent Black media.
Readers and industry leaders alike say the return of The Root to Black hands is a long-overdue and powerful statement about representation in media.
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