Spotlight Delaware is proud to announce that José Ignacio Castañeda Perez, an award-winning reporter with the organization, has been named a 2025 Chauncey Bailey Journalist of Color Fellow by Investigative Reporters and Editors (IRE). Castañeda Perez is one of only three journalists across the nation to receive this yearlong fellowship, designed to support journalists of color who have demonstrated a commitment to advancing diverse perspectives in investigative reporting.
Originally from Salamanca, Guanajuato, Mexico, Castañeda Perez brings an extensive background in covering historically excluded communities and issues that often go unreported. His experience spans nearly 400 miles of reporting along the U.S.-Mexico border and, more recently, includes his coverage of Delaware’s Latino community. He has also been instrumental in Spotlight Delaware’s efforts to create a bilingual content strategy, increasing accessibility to local news and information for this audience.
“I am honored to be chosen as one of the 2025 Investigative Reporters and Editors Chauncey Bailey Journalist of Color Investigative Reporting Fellows,” said Castañeda Perez. “This opportunity wouldn’t be possible without the talented team at Spotlight Delaware, and I can’t wait to get started.”
Editor in Chief Jake Owens praised Castañeda Perez’s dedication. “José Ignacio’s commitment to impactful storytelling is inspiring. This fellowship is a testament to his passion for investigative journalism, and we are thrilled to see him receive such a well-deserved honor.”
The fellowship provides Castañeda Perez with access to IRE’s extensive resources, including data journalism bootcamps, mentorship and IRE data services, empowering him to elevate the depth and scope of his investigative reporting in the First State.
About Spotlight Delaware:
Spotlight Delaware focuses on covering public policy and how it affects the daily lives of Delawareans throughout the state, with a particular emphasis on communities that have historically lacked access to local news and information. Learn more about Spotlight Delaware, sign up for the mailing list and become a Founding Member at spotlightdelaware.org.