The Future of Journalism Must Include A 'Stop List'

Fall conference season is in the air, and while I’ve had the pleasure to be surrounded by fellow journalists, communicators, and thought leaders, my emotions were both optimistic and apprehensive. The room's atmosphere buzzed with passion, hope, and ambition. Yet, beneath the surface, I pondered: are we truly breaking new ground, or are we merely retreading the lessons of the past?

As I gazed across the vast realm of journalism, I discerned numerous initiatives, platforms, and innovations. Though decentralization is often hailed as a swift approach, it frequently manifests inefficiencies. The industry's disparate parts, if integrated, could forge a media landscape that is both dynamic and streamlined and drives collective impact.

Yet, strategy discussions often overlook a glaring deficiency: our industry's diversity shortfall. Despite earnest efforts to bolster BIPOC-led organizations, we remain in the throes of an inclusivity crisis that is anemic. The voices shaping our stories aren't as diverse as the multifaceted audiences they serve.

Equally vital is amplifying "outside" voices. We must cast our nets wider, inviting insights from those outside or adjacent to journalism. Entities like NGOs, nonprofits, and local governments, which rely on journalism to energize their ecosystems, can offer invaluable viewpoints, enriching our narrative tapestry.

The heart of this narrative, however, is local journalism and its inextricable link to democracy. Community, in its purest form, is a microcosm of democracy — where every voice matters, where every story holds weight. Local news outlets serve as the backbone of these communities, spotlighting their achievements, challenges, aspirations, and concerns. When these outlets fail or are undermined, communities lose their voice, and in effect, the very essence of democracy is compromised.

Consider Flint, Michigan, where investigative reporter Curt Guyette first broke the water crisis story . Without him, the plight of the residents might have gone unnoticed, leading to even more severe consequences. Conversely, there are instances where local journalism's decline has left communities uninformed, making them vulnerable to misinformation. The loss of local newsrooms in many US towns, replaced by 'news deserts', creates voids where essential civic matters go unreported.

Reflecting on the direction of journalism funding, we need a "stop" list for revitalized? journalism:

• Chasing Scale Over Local Ground Impact: The allure of widespread reach and expansive scale can often overshadow the tangible, transformative impact that journalism can have on local communities. A story that resonates deeply within a community, leading to change, awareness, or action, can be far more potent than a superficial story that spreads widely but lacks depth.
• Overemphasis on Sustainability vs. Stability: While sustainability — the long-term viability of a project or endeavor — is undoubtedly vital, it's stability that often requires immediate attention. Stability ensures that the journalistic enterprise remains steady, reliable, and consistent, serving communities even amid crises, upheavals, or disruptions.
• Ignoring True Grassroots, Community-Centered Journalism and Civic Engagement: At the heart of impactful journalism is an intimate connection with the grassroots — stories that emerge from the community and are crafted for the community. Overlooking this foundational aspect can lead to a disconnect, where journalism becomes an aloof observer rather than an engaged participant.
• Investing in "Space-Occupying" Leadership vs. People Who Have Demonstrated the Ability to Lead:Leadership in journalism isn't about merely occupying a title or position; it's about vision, direction, and the capacity to inspire and guide. Instead of betting on individuals who merely fill roles, investments should target those who've proven their mettle, shown initiative, and demonstrated transformative leadership.
• Showcasing Actual Investments in Equity and Inclusion Initiatives vs. Saying We're Interested in It: In today's era, mere lip service to equity and inclusion is inadequate. Authentic commitment requires tangible actions — be it in the form of investments, programs, training, or community engagement. It's imperative to walk the talk, moving beyond mere declarations to concrete steps that advance equity and inclusivity in journalism.

As journalism grapples with evolving challenges and dynamics, this "stop" list can serve as a compass, guiding efforts towards funding practices that genuinely resonate with communities.?

And the future of journalism requires not only optimism but also introspection and responsibility. It's crucial to champion narratives that resonate at the community level, discard redundant practices, and foster an industry that mirrors the diversity and dynamism of the global populace. Our commitment to communities is a commitment to democracy itself.