Founded as the Suncoast Black Communicators, the group became the Tampa Bay area’s affiliate of the National Association of Black Journalists in 1990. The TBABJ now represents journalists of color in Pinellas, Hillsborough, Citrus, Hernando, Polk, Manatee and Pasco counties along the Suncoast of Florida.

Purpose: To bring together people of African descent who work in the media, or media-related jobs throughout the Tampa Bay area.

Mission:
The Tampa Bay Association of Black Journalists strives to help ensure diversity in area media and accurate, balanced coverage of communities of color while serving as a resource for both established and aspiring communicators of African decent.

Specific goals include:
* Bringing together black journalists with those who work in related fields, such as public relations.
* Awarding scholarships to promising young black students who plan to pursue careers as journalists.
* Serving as a clearinghouse for employment opportunities within the media.
* Sponsoring events that encourage quality coverage of communities of color.
* Sponsoring events encouraging professional development among journalists of color.
* Taking stands and positions on journalism or media issues or defending its members in related grievances.

Tax-exempt status: The association is a not-for-profit organization exempt from Federal income tax under Section 501 © 3 of the Internal Revenue Code.

Governance: The association’s governing body is its 10-member executive board. The president serves as chair. Other members include the chapter’s five other officers and heads of action committees, including finance and scholarships.