About Us
About Our Business
The Detroit Native Sun is a monthly newspaper that is committed to empowering the African American
community with informative news and information not readily found in mainstream media.

Written by award-winning journalists, the Detroit Native Sun seeks to capture readers with its unique
style designed to stimulate minds and raise emotions.

Special section fronts include Kidz Times, written by area youth, Words of Wisdom that provide a
forum for senior citizens to speak out, and Xpressions that gives local poets and artists a platform to
showcase their works. The Health section seeks to close gaps in disparities by highlighting critical
healthcare issues and concerns affecting the African American community such as HIV and AIDS,
diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, organ donation, and others.  Home Town Pride spotlights
individuals and groups making significant contributions in the community. Advertorials allow local
businesses, politicians and community groups to tell their story and promote their products and
services in a unique way that is not offered by mainstream papers.

Subjects covered are the genuine concerns of the African American community. Unlike other papers
that shuffle letters and unwanted mail to the side, the Detroit Native Sun responds to all
feedback.

                   About the Publisher
To those walking in darkness, I share my light. And, together we shall reveal the truth.

Seeking to enlighten the African American community with insightful news and information, Valerie D.
Lockhart founded the Detroit Native Sun in October 2005.

There she serves as publisher and executive editor giving a voice to both young and old in the
community.

Born and raised in Detroit, Lockhart was educated in the Detroit Public School system and graduated
with honors from the University of Detroit with a Bachelor of Arts in Communications.

With over 20 years journalism experience, Lockhart has been recognized for her community service,
creativity and accuracy in reporting. She is listed in the 2008 and 2009 editions of Who’s Who in Black
Detroit. Other awards received include the Lincoln University Unity in Media award, American Red
Cross Community Service Award, James Tatum Foundation of the Arts award, Xavier University Parents
Association Community Service Award for assisting local hurricane Katrina victims and awards from the
big three automakers. She also serves on the Presidential Advisory Board at Detroit Hope Hospital,
Hospice Advantage African American Advisory Board, American Red Cross African American Leadership
Conference Advisory Board, and Teen Mom Housing Board of Directors, hoping to make a difference in
the City of Detroit.

                           Demographics
The “Detroit Native Sun” is designed to attract African American readers of all ages and economic
backgrounds, particularly ages 8 and up.

Special sections and columns that include Kidz Times, written by metro Detroit students ages 8 to 18;
Words of Wisdom, written by senior citizens; and Mom on the Rebound, for single middle aged readers
ages 45 to 60.

According to results of a survey conducted by the Detroit Native Sun among its readers, the median
income of readers is $30-45,000 per single resident and $40-60,000 per household/family of five.

                            Distribution
•  20,000 copies printed monthly with a growing readership of over 40,000 people

•  Over 200 distribution spots in high traffic areas such as the Detroit Public Library, Hazel Park
Library, Oak Park Library, Glory Supermarket chain, Jewish Vocational Services, American Red Cross,  
Lee Beauty Supply chain, WHPR radio and TV station, Shrine of the Black Madonna, Lou’s Deli chain,
gas stations, convenience and grocery stores, restaurants, night clubs, book stores, and retail outlets.

•  “Detroit Native Sun” can be found in Detroit, Highland Park, Southfield, Dearborn, Oak Park, Inkster
and Redford
Township.