The Fragile State of Local News and How to Support Journalism
The health of independent journalism is facing significant challenges, impacting communities across the nation. As advertising revenue struggles to sustain news organizations, and with a decline in original reporting, the consequences for democracy are becoming increasingly dire. Experts and organizations are urging news consumers, journalists, and policymakers to take concrete steps to support a more sustainable future for journalism.
According to the American Journalism Project, the closure of newspapers has left communities without a local newsroom, contributing to a decline in voter and civic engagement, an increase in government waste, and widening public polarization. The organization highlights that , saw renewed calls for support of independent and honest journalism, with organizations like Colorado Newsline emphasizing the importance of backing those who prioritize truth.
The Decline and Its Consequences
The crisis in local news isn’t simply about fewer reporters. it’s about a weakening of the foundations of informed citizenship. The American Journalism Project reports that a significant percentage of journalism jobs no longer exist, and original reporting is in decline. This has a ripple effect, leading to a less informed public and a compromised democracy.
What Can Be Done?
Matt Pearce, writing in a Substack post, outlines specific actions individuals can take. For news consumers, the most direct support comes through financial contributions. Pearce suggests donating to nonprofit newsrooms that produce high-quality investigative journalism focused on subjects that matter to the individual. He specifically recommends starting locally, checking if a community has a nonprofit newsroom, and, if not, considering a donation to ProPublica for national investigative reporting.
Pearce also highlights the importance of supporting Investigative Journalists and Editors, described as the “premier training organization for accountability reporters.” He notes that investigative journalism, while crucial, is labor-intensive and often struggles to be financially self-sufficient, relying heavily on philanthropic support.
Beyond Donations: Subscriptions and Collective Support
Financial support isn’t limited to one-time donations. Pearce encourages subscribing to independent writers and exploring emerging journalist collectives and co-ops that offer bundled subscriptions. This provides a more sustainable revenue stream for journalists and allows consumers to support a diverse range of voices.
A Call for Sustained Support
The need for support extends beyond individual actions. The Society of Professional Journalists emphasizes the importance of supporting journalism providing resources and thought leadership to foster a more sustainable future for the profession. The American Journalism Project is actively investing in and building digital nonprofit newsrooms, aiming to create an independent, resilient, and representative civic press.
As a Facebook post from states, seeking out objective news organizations – those that don’t simply reinforce existing beliefs – and supporting them is crucial. The post underscores the importance of independent journalism, particularly at a time when accurate information is vital.
The American Journalism Project has already raised for local nonprofit news and is backing nonprofit news organizations. Their work demonstrates that rebuilding local news is possible, but requires sustained investment and a commitment from both individuals, and institutions.
