The Society of Professional Journalists Northern California chapter is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Belva Davis. She was 92 years old.

Davis broke the color barrier in Bay Area radio and television in the 1960s and over nearly five decades covered politics, public affairs, and watershed Bay Area stories — including the Jonestown mass deaths, the assassinations of Mayor George Moscone and Supervisor Harvey Milk, and the AIDS crisis — bringing context, rigor, and humanity to the air.

More than her groundbreaking journalism, Belva Davis was a mentor, a hero, and an inspiration to generations of women of color in journalism. She opened doors, lifted others up, and demonstrated that integrity, perseverance, and excellence could overcome even the steepest obstacles.

Her light will continue to guide those who follow in her footsteps.

— Meaghan Mitchell, SPJ NorCal board member and events director