DMB (Debbie-Marie Brown) - Profile and Journalist Details

Beats

Biography

Raised in New Britain, CT. BSJ and MSJ from Northwestern. Reporting on LGBTQ+ and Black & Brown Chicago with the Chicago Reader. Used to report on Black Evanston and local reparations with Evanston Roundtable

Content

Total articles 184

• First Ascent staff launch union drive

  By DMB (Debbie-Marie Brown) Verified| Chicago Reader Verified Before First Ascent opened its Avondale location in 2015, there were few if any dedicated climbing gyms in Chicago. The climbing scene was less accessible; it was difficult to break into if you weren’t already traveling and climbing outdoors on your own. Now with four Chicago gyms, First Ascent has built a reputation as a social hub for newcomers, who are welcomed with an array of weekly meetups for solo climbers and perks that let members bring first-time guests for free.

  By DMB (Debbie-Marie Brown) Verified · Chicago Reader

  Mar. 13, 2025

• Mikel Galati, owner and operator of Modest Merch

  By DMB (Debbie-Marie Brown) Verified| Chicago Reader Verified Mikel Galati owns and operates a small screen-printing shop on the northwest side called Modest Merch. He prints custom apparel for musicians, clothing companies, small businesses, and others—but his niche is the DIY scene. Galati has been running his shop for 13 years, and he headed down the bumpy road of business ownership when he was 21. He hasn’t held another job since. “I will work with anybody for the most part, but bands are what I know,” Galati says.

  By DMB (Debbie-Marie Brown) Verified · Chicago Reader

  Feb. 27, 2025

As seen in

Company Info

Chicago Reader

The Chicago Reader is an alternative weekly newspaper that has been a significant part of Chicago's cultural and political landscape since its founding in 1971. It is known for its fearless journalism and strong community ties, initially serving the city's countercultural demographics, including artists, musicians, and activists. The Reader has transitioned from a print-focused model to a hybrid digital and print operation, continuing to provide critical political analysis and cultural criticism. The Reader offers weekly print editions and daily online content, featuring investigative reporting and event listings. It collaborates with freelancers and independent outlets to amplify marginalized voices, supported by initiatives like the Accountability Journalism project. The paper has also published special projects, including a commemorative book celebrating its history. Under new leadership, the Reader emphasizes equity in staffing and coverage, focusing on issues affecting communities of color and immigrants, while remaining community-supported through donation drives and campaigns.