Rosetta Miller-Perry, Tennessee Tribune Founder And Civil Rights Leader, Dies At 91

By: Sharyn Flanagan (The Philadelphia Tribune)

The Tennessee Tribune family mourns the passing of its founder, publisher and chief executive officer, Rosetta Miller-Perry, who died Friday, June 26. She was 91.

A trailblazing publisher, civil rights pioneer and entrepreneur, Miller-Perry dedicated her life to ensuring the stories, achievements and voices of Tennessee’s Black community were told with accuracy, dignity and purpose. Her life’s work reflected a deep commitment to justice, representation and economic empowerment.

Before founding the Tennessee Tribune, she spent more than 25 years in public service. Her work included positions with the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights and the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, where she advocated for fairness and opportunity during a pivotal era in the nation’s Civil Rights Movement.

In 1991, after being unable to secure financing from local banks, Miller-Perry invested $70,000 of her personal savings to launch the Tennessee Tribune. What began as a bold and risky venture grew under her leadership into one of the state’s most influential Black-owned newspapers and a trusted voice for civil rights, community advocacy and Black-owned businesses. The publication became known for its consistent coverage of issues often overlooked in mainstream media and for uplifting the voices of underserved communities.

She later relocated the newspaper’s headquarters to historic Jefferson Street, establishing its permanent home in the heart of Nashville’s historic Black community. From that base, the Tribune expanded its reach while maintaining strong ties to the neighborhoods and readers it served.

Beyond journalism, Miller-Perry’s leadership extended into civic and business organizations. She was the founder of the Nashville Black Chamber of Commerce, helping to strengthen opportunities for Black entrepreneurs, and a charter member of Nashville’s Les Gemmes.

Those who knew her spoke of her determination, vision and unwavering belief in the power of the Black press. Her legacy is reflected not only in the institution she built, but also in the generations of journalists, leaders and community members she inspired.

The work Miller-Perry began more than three decades ago will continue. In the coming days, the Tennessee Tribune will publish additional stories celebrating her extraordinary life, enduring legacy and contributions to journalism, civil rights and the communities she loved.

Funeral arrangements and additional information will be shared as they become available.