By Rev. Donald L. Perryman, Ph.D.
The Truth Contributor
Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced.
– James Baldwin
When 13abc announced that Sashem Brey would succeed Diane Larson as co-anchor of the prestigious 5 and 6 p.m. newscasts, Kristian Brown posted a message on her Facebook page almost simultaneously:
“2024 was a year to remember. From career milestones to personal growth, graduations, unforgettable moments, and new beginnings. The best is yet to come! Cheers to 2025!”
However, those who know Kristian and have followed her career could sense a suppressed disappointment simmering beneath her words, even though she tried hard to be celebratory and optimistic.
Without question, Sashem Brey (also an ethnic minority) is a highly skilled journalist who has earned her place at the desk. Brey’s professionalism, service and connection with the Toledo viewing audience are well-documented, and her transition from mornings to evenings isn’t without merit. She has held down the number one morning show for over 20 years and, as a mother of young children, understandably has had enough of getting up at 2:00 a.m. each morning for work.
On the other hand, Kristian Brown has been more than just an anchor. For years, she’s been a hometown face of trust and professionalism in media.
Her anchoring of the 5:30, 7:00 and 11:00 p.m. and Helping Hands community service segments sponsored by the Yark Automotive Group are a testament to her versatility and ability to command multiple key time slots. The 7:00 p.m. broadcast, in particular, showcases her talent in a space she’s built from the ground up and made her own. It’s also a time slot that continues to grow in ratings, directly tied to Kristian’s leadership and presence.
Yet, despite her contributions, tenure, and deep community roots, Kristian was not chosen for the 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. slots—arguably the most coveted in local news broadcasting. In an industry where visibility in these time slots often represents the peak of an anchor’s career, the decision—following Brown’s decades of pursuing local career advancement and backed by dedication, performance, and an undeniable connection with Toledo’s viewers–—raises uncomfortable but necessary questions.
More specifically, 13abc’s decision presents a stark reminder of the persistent barriers faced by talented Black women in media leadership.
Indeed, 13abc has made substantial strides to ensure its newsroom reflects the diversity of its audience. However, diversity is not just about filling slots—it’s about making intentional choices that recognize and reward talent, dedication, performance, and leadership.
To be clear, though, I highly doubt that Kristian Brown would ask anyone for sympathy. I’m sure she doesn’t want viewers or community members to feel sorry for her, nor do I see evidence of her dwelling in the shadows of what could have been. So, I am not portraying her as a victim. But her supporters—and the larger community—are not wrong to feel disappointed or to expect more from 13abc.
My point here isn’t just about one anchor seat or one promotion. I am not privy to all the considerations that went into 13abc’s decision. Nevertheless, I’m concerned about what this decision says to the next generation of journalists watching this real-life drama unfold—young women, young Black professionals, and aspiring anchors wondering how far talent and dedication can truly take them.
Therefore, let’s not mistake Kristian Brown’s optimism for passive acceptance. Nor should our community remain passive while watching this story play out. Viewers should pay attention—not merely to the broadcasts but to the decisions being made behind the scenes.
If you support Brown, then show up. Watch the 5:30, the 7:00 and the 11:00 p.m. broadcasts. Celebrate or amplify her work and hold those in power accountable for recognizing and rewarding it appropriately.
Because it’s not just about anticipating what’s next for Kristian Brown—it’s also about what’s next from those in positions to make these decisions in the first place – especially a television station that prides itself on being number one in Toledo’s local news rankings and a leader in community representation.
Contact Rev. Donald Perryman. PhD, at drdlperryman@enterofhopebaptist.org