The first nationally syndicated African American female cartoonist, Barbara Brandon-Croft, has called for the promotion of cartoon in journalism and storytelling.

Brandon-Croft made the call at a U.S. Speaker Program titled, “Sketch & Satire: The Art and Impact of Editorial Cartooning”, organised in collaboration with the Punch Media Foundation in Lagos

The cartoonist, who was in Nigeria between February 18 and 24 for the event, met with Nigeria’s prominent and emerging cartoonists, journalists, comic artists, illustrators, caricaturists, animators, students, journalism, and arts professors.

As part of a three-day editorial cartooning workshop, Brandon-Croft joined veteran Nigerian cartoonist, Wale Adenuga, for a panel discussion on the significance of visual storytelling in shaping public opinion. Together, they highlighted the importance of freedom of expression as one of the key pillars of a vibrant democracy.

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Also speaking at the event, U.S. Consulate Public Affairs Officer, Julie McKay, highlighted the importance of cultural exchanges like Brandon-Croft’s visit to Nigeria and their ability to bring Americans and Nigerians together to share ideas and expertise, promote mutual understanding, and strengthen democratic institutions like the media.

McKay said: “The United States government will continue to promote the importance of a free press because the media plays an essential role in preserving democracy.

“Democracies need tenacious storytellers, like journalists and editorial cartoonists, who challenge us to think critically and help shape public discourse. Their work shines a light on important issues, exposes injustice, and helps hold leaders accountable.”

Brandon-Croft is best known for creating the comic strip, ‘Where I’m Coming From’.

During its 15-year run, the comic strip appeared in over 65 newspapers across the United States and Canada, as well as Jamaica, South Africa, and Barbados. Her comics are in the permanent collection of the U.S. Library of Congress.

The Star