Today we’d like to introduce you to Garrison Hayes.
Hi Garrison, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My name is Garrison Hayes — I’m a journalist and filmmaker from Southwest Atlanta, but my work has taken me all over the world.
Growing up, I was always fascinated by cameras and visual storytelling. As a kid, my mom would let me play around with her old school floppy-disk digital camera. I started making YouTube videos in 2007, and I’ve been hooked on capturing and sharing the world as I see it ever since. I really think my mom and dad’s willingness to nurture, support and invest in my interests early in is why I’m here now.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The journey hasn’t always been smooth, but I wouldn’t want it to be.
I tell stories about Black people, our history and the ways we are building political power today. When you uplift stories that some parts of society want to bury or force out of view, it comes with its own challenge and pushback. I’ve come to accept this as a part of the territory.
But I also think a lot about the stories my Nana tells me of what it was like to grow up in Lynwood Park; the complex medley of childhood whimsy, Black solidarity and racial violence that her community faced from law enforcement and racist business owners. When I compare my experience of racist internet trolls or the occasional in-person confrontations to the things she and her family faced, I can’t help but be grateful that I’m living here and now — while also feeling a profound responsibility to make sure all of our stories live on.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am an award-winning journalist, host and commentator!
I am a Correspondent for Center for Investigative reporting and tell stories about Black folks, our history and the ways we build political power. My work has landed me appearance on MSNBC, Al Jazeera and the Today Show. I’ve earned two Webby Awards, a National Association of Black Journalists Salute to Excellence Award and a host of other honors that I am proud of!
I also host a YouTube channel and a forthcoming podcast where I talk to experts and friends about today’s most interesting questions!
What do you like and dislike about the city?
I love Atlanta because it a place where we can be ourselves. Fully.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://substack.com/@garrisonhayes?r=12ws1y&utm_medium=ios
- Instagram: https://Instagram.com/garrisonh
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@garrisonhayes?si=j7d3sS5EOriPlhl7
