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Gretchen Lembcke Pena

Gretchen Lembcke Peña is a multimedia bilingual journalist originally from Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. She holds a B.A in Multimedia Journalism from Lynn University and recently earned her M.A in Bilingual Journalism from the Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism at CUNY. Her reporting centers on community and cross-cultural storytelling with a focus on representation. Gretchen has long been passionate about writing surrounding social issues, arts, culture, and entertainment, which led her to pursue journalism. Outside the newsroom, she spends her time tackling her reading goal for the week.

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Gretchen's Latest Articles

Iowa ‘3-strikes’ bill could disproportionately impact Black Iowans

Lawmakers debated costs, prison space and racial disparities before passing a bill requiring controversial 20-year sentences for repeat offenders.

IOWA CAPITOL
Iowa lawmakers suggest bill to ensure health safety in schools

A proposed bill would require school districts to develop emergency response plans, including CPR and other health-related training for staff.

Black Tech town hall examines AI’s impact on Black communities

Safer and conscious use of AI technologies is necessary, advocates say. The concerns are present even in places like West Des Moines, Iowa.

College-educated Black women faced largest employment losses in 2025

Employment data show college-educated Black women were hit hardest by 2025 job losses, especially those who worked in government roles.

The Power of Art: Sioux City NAACP commemorates Coretta Scott King during Black History Month

Sioux City NAACP hosts free Coretta Scott King program with live narration, music and Civil Rights storytelling at Morningside University.

Former Des Moines superintendent’s guilty plea accepted

Ian Roberts, who was apprehended by ICE on Sept. 26, pleaded guilty to two federal charges.

Iowa Capitol
Boos, disapproval mark tensions during Iowa House Study Bill 668 subcommittee meeting at Iowa Capitol

Iowans argue Iowa HSB 668 would deepen inequality at the state level in education, public safety, judicial system, among others.

IMMAWII: Black Arts and Culture Festival Celebrates 28 Years

I'll Make Me a World in Iowa, the country's first major Black festival of the year, kicks off Black History Month with excitement.

Ruth Ann Gaines
Iowa Legislative Black Caucus to include other racial minority groups

Caucus Chair Rep. Ruth Ann Gaines emphasizes the necessity for inclusion and visibility of other people of color.

Iowa Ranked Bottom on States With Most Racial Progress

Iowa ranks low in racial progress and integration in new analysis measuring gaps in education, income, employment and health care.