The Root, a website aimed at the African American demographic both in America and around the globe, has been acquired by Hispanic specialist Univision, which has been actively expanding its presence on the digital side.
The seller is Graham Holdings, which is notable for its five-station television group and its former fame as publisher of The Washington Post.
Univision stated, “The Root reaches an average of 5 million unique users per month, according to ComScore. As the leading online source of news and commentary from an African-American perspective, The Root raises the profile of black voices in mainstream media and engages anyone interested in black culture around the world.”
“Like Univision, The Root aims to serve a significant segment of America’s diverse population. Our diverse communities are continuing to define the fabric of the country, from buying power, to social influence, to elections,” said Isaac Lee, president of News and Digital for UCI and CEO of Fusion. “This game-changing union strengthens our ability to fulfill our shared missions of informing and empowering our communities.”
“Donna Byrd, publisher, and Henry Louis Gates, co-founder, established The Root and made it the success it is today. We are extremely proud and grateful for all they have accomplished, and we are excited for the new growth opportunities today’s sale gives them,” said Donald E. Graham, Chairman and CEO of Graham Holdings.
