How Moneta Sleet Jr. Became the First Black Pulitzer Prize Winner in Journalism in 1969 for His Historic Photograph of Coretta Scott King at Dr. King’s Funeral
Moneta Sleet Jr. became the first Black photographer to win the Pulitzer Prize in journalism in 1969. His award was based on a powerful and emotional photograph taken during the funeral of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
The image captured Coretta Scott King in adeeply personal momentof grief and strength. It quickly became one of the most recognized photographs in American history, symbolizing both loss and dignity during a turning point in the civil rights movement.
Coretta Scott King and the Historic Funeral PhotographDuring Dr. King’s funeral, access for journalists was tightly controlled. At first, Moneta Sleet Jr. was nearly denied entry to cover the event as a photographer. This almost prevented him from documenting one of the most important moments in American history.
However, Coretta Scott King ensured that he was allowed to attend. That decision made it possible for Sleet to capture the now-famous image of her at the funeral. The photograph later became the work that earned him the Pulitzer Prize.
Pulitzer Prize Recognition for Powerful Black StorytellingThe Pulitzer Prize awarded to Moneta Sleet Jr. marked a major milestone in journalism history. It recognized not only his skill as a photographer but also the importance of Black voices andperspectives in telling national stories.
His work showed that Black journalists were documenting history from within their own communities, often with deeper understanding and emotional truth. The award helped open doors for more recognition of Black professionals in mainstream media.
The photograph of Coretta Scott King remains a lasting reminder of both personal grief and national struggle. It reflects a moment when the civil rights movement lost one of its strongest leaders, while also showing the resilience of those left behind.
Today, Moneta Sleet Jr.’s work is remembered as a powerful example of storytelling through photography. His Pulitzer Prize win continues to inspire journalists and photographers to tell stories that matter, especially from voices that have often been overlooked.
