West Side Mourns Brad Cummings, Fights to Save Austin Voice Newspaper Amid Financial Crisis
The future of The Austin Voice, a cornerstone of Chicago’s West Side community news for nearly four decades, hangs precariously in the balance following the tragic death of its founder and longtime editor, Brad Cummings, in a devastating June apartment fire. The publication, which has served as a crucial platform for local voices and a watchdog for community issues, is grappling with significant financial debt and a daunting challenge to continue its legacy without its guiding spirit.
Brad Cummings, 76, was among four individuals who lost their lives in the arson-suspected blaze that ripped through an apartment building on West North Avenue. His passing has sent shockwaves through the community he dedicated his life to covering. For 40 years, Cummings was the unwavering eyes and ears of the West Side, his trusty camera capturing the essence of neighborhood life and his editorial vision shaping the narrative of its people. His commitment extended beyond reporting; he was a community advocate, playing a role in founding the Austin AIDS Prevention Coalition and serving as president of the Austin Business Council.
A Legacy of Advocacy and Truth
Founded in 1985 by Cummings and publisher Isaac Jones, The Austin Voice was established to fill a critical void in local news coverage on Chicago’s West Side. At a time when many communities felt underrepresented by mainstream media, The Voice emerged as a powerful advocate, earning accolades for its in-depth reporting and commitment to the people it served. The newspaper was notably recognized with the Ethics In Journalism Award from the Chicago Headline Club for exposing corruption in the 15th police district, leading to the conviction of officers involved in the “Austin 7” case. It also took a leading role in raising awareness about the AIDS epidemic, helping to found the Westside HIV/AIDS Regional Planning Council.
As Jones recalled, Cummings believed the community needed a newspaper, and he poured his life into making The Austin Voice a reality. “We started the newspaper on faith and a shoestring,” Jones stated, reflecting on their early days. Cummings was known for his relentless work ethic, often seen out delivering papers himself, ensuring the news reached every corner of the West Side. His passion for journalism and his belief in the potential of the West Side were infectious, inspiring those around him and fostering a sense of empowerment among residents. The publication grew, eventually becoming known as The Voice Newspapers, incorporating The Garfield-Lawndale Voice in 2005 to further broaden its reach.
Financial Struggles and a Call for Support
The legacy of Brad Cummings and The Austin Voice is now threatened by substantial financial hurdles. The newspaper currently owes approximately $65,000 in expenses for production and facilities, leading to a halt in its publishing schedule since the June fire. To address these debts and honor Cummings’ dedication, a GoFundMe campaign, “Keep the VOICE Alive,” has been launched with a goal of raising $10,000. As of Tuesday, the campaign had garnered nearly $3,000 in donations.
Publisher Isaac Jones, now based in Virginia, expressed the urgency of the situation, noting that without resolving the outstanding debts, the paper will be forced to discontinue publishing. “If we’re not able to get the debt vacated or resolved, then the paper will just discontinue publishing,” Jones stated. While he hopes to see the newspaper continue under new leadership, he is also mindful of not passing on an insurmountable financial burden. The goal is to clear the debts, stabilize the newspaper’s finances, and then allow an advisory board to select new leadership, ensuring that Cummings’ vision is carried forward.
A Community’s Hope for the Future
The potential closure of The Austin Voice represents a significant loss for the West Side, a community that has relied on its consistent and dedicated reporting. Residents and community leaders have expressed deep sorrow over Cummings’ death and voiced a strong desire to see the newspaper survive as a testament to his enduring impact. Steve Sewall, director of Chicago Civic Media, remarked, “If Cummings could answer, he’d insist… that the West Side has all the talent, young and old, to make The Voice Chicago’s most respected newspaper.”
The community’s collective memories highlight Cummings’ role not just as an editor but as a vital force in community development, advocating for education, civil rights, and voting rights. His sister, Mary Beth Lawton, noted his deep care for these issues, stating, “Your voice will be deeply missed, especially in these troubled times.”
As the GoFundMe campaign continues, the hope remains that the community will rally to support The Austin Voice, ensuring that the paper’s editorial voice, so deeply connected to the spirit of the West Side, can continue to inform, advocate, and inspire for generations to come. The fight to keep the paper publishing is a fight to preserve a critical piece of the West Side’s history and identity.
