Recent interest in the Black travel market comes after persistent questions related to the equity and inclusion of this demographic in the tourism industry. This study examines the historical and contemporary interactions between legislation and the representation of travel in Black press, specifically The Crisis, The Negro Motorist Green Book, and Ebony Magazine. This study offers theoretical implications for critical race theory by linking the legislation and minority voices to better understand the social systems in place that interact with and impact travel representation within the Black community. Additionally, the study adds to legitimacy theory by identifying ways in which legislation and social norms impacted legitimacy of the Black consumer market. The findings also give clues to ways destination leaders can authentically engage the Black traveler market.