Journalism Legend Essex Porter Reflects on Media Evolution and Community Storytelling in Seattle
Photo: Erik Kalligraphy
In a recent appearance on The Mother's Justice Show, retired Emmy-winning political reporter Essex Porter joined host The Big O to discuss his storied career, the shifting media landscape, and his ongoing work within the Seattle community. Porter, who spent 39 years at KIRO 7, currently serves on the board of Cascade PBS and as the treasurer for the Seattle Association of Black Journalists (SABJ).
A Legacy of Representation
The Big O hailed Porter as a "true legend" and the "people’s champ," noting how Porter’s decades-long presence on television served as a shining example for aspiring Black journalists. Porter reflected on his role as a mentor.
"The best way to open doors for others who were doing that job was to do the best we can and just be that silent example,” he said.
Porter emphasized that this impact transcends industry lines.
"If you are the Black scientist…and there's a young person who loves science and sees you as an example of somebody who can do it, then that means they can try to do it too,” he said.
Photo: Erik Kalligraphy
Redefining Journalism through the SABJ
Porter spoke extensively about the mission of the Seattle Association of Black Journalists, an organization nearly four decades old. He highlighted a recent program featuring journalist Angela Poe Russell’s musical, Aviatrix, which tells the story of Bessie Coleman, the first African American and Native American woman to earn an international pilot license.
For Porter, this project exemplified the expansion of traditional journalism. "Journalism is not just the narrow strip of writing a newspaper article or broadcasting on TV and the radio," he said. "Journalism is telling our community story, America's story, in many different ways.”
Navigating a Fragmented Media Landscape
When asked about the current state of news in Seattle, Porter observed a significant shift from the era of "linear broadcasting" to a highly fragmented digital ecosystem. He noted that while people find it more convenient to get news from phones and social media, this shift creates new challenges for the public.
Regarding the rise of algorithmic news feeds, Porter offered a word of caution to consumers: "The loudest voice in your ear may not be the 100% correct voice... keep thinking to yourself, why are they saying that? Why are they saying that this way? What they might be leaving out.”
Photo: Erik Kalligraphy
Public Policy and the Future of Seattle
The conversation also touched on the complex issues facing Seattle leadership, including housing affordability, budget deficits, and the controversial use of surveillance cameras. Having recently attended a Civic Cocktail event featuring Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson, Porter noted the deep divisions within the community on these topics.
On the debate over surveillance cameras, Porter remained skeptical of their total efficacy. "How many times did cameras actually solve the crime?" he said. "You saw them do the crime, is that going to help you actually catch them? That just tells you they did the crime.”
Continued Service at Cascade PBS
Now in retirement, Porter remains active in the industry through his board position at Cascade PBS, where he helps guide the organization’s mission to "inform, educate, and inspire" the region. He encouraged listeners to explore the diversity of local programming available on digital platforms, ranging from Northwest history to stories spotlighting Black cowboys.
"I think everyone will find something they connect to," Porter said, reinforcing his lifelong commitment to inclusive and impactful storytelling.
Listen to Porter’s full interview on The Mother’s Justice Show here.
Tune in to The Mother’s Justice Show Mondays from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. on 1150 AM KKNW.
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