Giving Newark a Greater Voice
Giving Newark a Greater Voice
Tehsuan Glover
Editor/Publisher, The Newark Times
As a budding journalist, Tehsuan saw a lot of positive change going on in Newark, yet realized with frustration that the traditional media was only covering violent crime or negative stories about the city. In order to better represent the vibrant, historical, and wildly creative city he knew Newark to be, he and his partners started The Newark Times, a digital publication.
The publication is a way to let Newark speak on its own behalf, establishing an identity of its own craft, rather than being defined by voices from the outside. It is a grand opportunity — and therein lies a challenge. There are a million stories to tell, and Tehsuan admits that every day
is a heavy lift. So each day, he lifts as much as he can in service of his beloved city of Newark.
He feels so grateful to be here now. The renaissance of the city gives him plenty to report on and the power and capability of the internet make it possible.
“You already have the permission that you need.”
Tehsuan is passionate about his city: the history, the incredible artists that were born here and developed here, the culture of hospitality and friendliness. He notes that through the years many people moved here from the South or the Midwest, and they brought that friendliness with them. “There is tremendous hospitality on the street,” he enthuses. “People greet strangers, strike up conversations, and develop relationships with the owner of the newsstand, or the barista at the cafe, and they actually talk, they have real conversations.” It’s part of what helps make Brick City so surprisingly special.
One of his favorite pastimes is to give people walking tours of downtown and show them what he calls the hidden gems. He urges people to look up at the beauty of the architecture of the grand old buildings: the Newark Library, The Newark Museum, and the Court buildings. “Look up!” he encourages, “and take in the craftsmanship and design of these beautiful buildings.”
“Newark is full of places and happenings that give you a special feeling,” he says, “and you think, I wish my city did that. But then you realize it is your city. You are home.”
Favorite Spot:
Jimenez Tobacco on Liberty Street. “It’s a speakeasy — time travel back to regal times. Stylish decor, gorgeous bar, hand-rolled Cuban cigars.”