Juan Gonzalez

Juan González is an American progressive broadcast journalist and investigative reporter with a career spanning over three decades. He is renowned for his significant contributions to journalism, particularly his deep dives into issues such as the labor movement, the environment, race relations, and urban policy. His work has not only informed the public but also earned him prestigious accolades, including two George Polk Awards for commentary.

González began his illustrious career as a staff columnist for New York's Daily News in 1987, a position he held until his retirement in 2016. His role extended beyond print journalism as he became a prominent co-host of "Democracy Now," a daily morning news show that has been a platform for his high-profile interviews with international leaders like Venezuela’s Hugo Chavez, Bolivia’s Evo Morales, and Iran’s Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. These interviews have been pivotal in breaking major news stories.

As an author, González has penned five influential books, including "Harvest of Empire: A History of Latinos in America" and "News for All the People: The Epic Story of Race and the American Media." His literary contributions offer insightful perspectives on significant socio-political issues affecting America. In recognition of his impact on journalism, González was the first Latino inducted into the Society of Professional Journalists New York Journalism Hall of Fame in 2015.

Beyond his journalistic endeavors, González has been a committed educator, holding the position of the Richard D. Heffner Professor of Communications and Public Policy at Rutgers University since 2018. His academic roles have also included stints as a visiting professor at Brooklyn College and New York University. His dedication to journalism education is evident from his time as president of the National Association of Hispanic Journalists from 2002-2004, where he launched significant initiatives like the Parity Project.

González's activism roots trace back to his leadership roles in the Young Lords and the National Congress for Puerto Rican Rights during the turbulent 1960s and 1970s. This early involvement in civil rights has profoundly influenced his journalistic and academic career, underscoring his lifelong commitment to advocacy and education. In 2016, his contributions to historical research and preservation were acknowledged when he was elected a fellow of the New York Academy of History.