DUANE BOURNE

During the late 90s, Stony Brook did not yet have as strong a journalism department as it does today. This did not stop students from running publications such as the Statesmen and Black World.

Duane Bourne, attending Stony Brook from 1998-2001, spent his senior year as editor of Black World. He said, “It wasn’t easy work, but it was necessary to carry that torch.”

As editor of Black World, Duane focused on being an alternative voice to the Statesmen. He defined Black World as a cultural ambassador, presenting the history and views of Black and Brown students on a campus where they were a small minority.

The paper served as a forum for the tight knit community of students of color, for not just the staff writers but students being encouraged to submit their work whether it be op-eds or poetry.

Duane was focused on his work at Black World and looking back on his time as editor, recalls the pride students took in its publication. The tight knit, dedicated community supporting Black World was devoted to spreading the views of minorities on campus and representing their respective cultures positively. Following the interview, Duane mentioned how the interview brought back memories— Memories of hanging out, working in the basement office, and being part of a community, knowing that his work would make a difference.