I never envisioned myself as a journalist. Back when I was a college freshman, juggling English and journalism as my double majors, I thought I was destined to be a “writer,” despite having no real understanding of what that entailed. Lacking a major in “Whimsical Diary Entries and Half-Baked Stories,” I opted for those two fields that seemed to promise a life of quiet creativity.
Then, journalism slapped me in the face.
Because, dear 19-year-old me, journalism is not just about writing. It’s about pursuing the truth. It’s about caring deeply for fairness, for others, and for our shared future. Journalism is tough.
Now, I look back and feel grateful for those grueling journalism classes for a multitude of reasons. Most importantly? They instilled in me a profound respect for genuine journalists—those brave souls who are not only eager to relay a story but also possess an unwavering commitment to uncovering what truly matters.
Those classes taught me how crucial, albeit often underappreciated, the role of journalists is in a democracy. Their rigorous and honest reporting can change governments and save lives. Icons like Woodward, Bernstein, Cronkite, Walters, and Rather are more than just names; they are our advocates. The extent to which we, as a society, depend on their relentless efforts is astounding.
Today, these dedicated journalists face daunting challenges. Their tasks are Herculean, and we need their voices now more than ever. Supporting them means we can learn the real facts (not the alternative nonsense).
When those in power are the same ones trying to obscure the truth, it’s crucial for journalists to step up and ask the hard questions. When officials claim events occurred that never did or present figures that simply don’t add up, we need those journalists to investigate and crunch the numbers.
If you’ve been glued to the news like I have and recognize that fake news is a significant issue, consider backing journalism that makes a difference. Here’s how you can lend a hand:
1. Subscribe
Sure, we live in a digital age where we can snag most headlines from social media. But where do those reliable headlines originate? Trustworthy news outlets. Without subscribers and advertisers, those publications can’t keep producing the in-depth articles we need to share with our friends and family (to gently educate them, of course).
Currently, many newspapers and magazines are rolling out fantastic subscription deals. I recently signed up for the New York Times digital edition for a steal (and it’s worth it just for the daily crossword). I even got Vanity Fair and Teen Vogue for $5 a year each! (Seriously, if you haven’t checked out Teen Vogue’s brilliant feminist reporting lately, you’re missing out.) You can also support online news platforms, podcasts, and radio shows with both your dollars and your attention. Every click and read helps bolster their appeal to sponsors, and some outlets like NPR and Slate offer memberships that come with perks. So, if there’s a publication you admire, consider investing in it to ensure its survival.
2. Donate
Support the free press by contributing to organizations and nonprofits focused on preserving it. For instance, check out ProPublica, an independent newsroom dedicated to investigative journalism for the public good. The Marshall Project aims to elevate the conversation around criminal justice. The Poynter Institute supports anyone wanting to engage and inform citizens in modern democracies—think journalists, educators, and the public alike. Pretty awesome, right? If you can, consider donating to these invaluable resources.
3. Read
Yes, really read. Don’t just skim the headlines and get fired up. Dive deep into the articles. Analyze the sources for credibility. How can you do this? Use the CRAAP Test. (Seriously, it’s a librarian-developed set of criteria for evaluating information.) Here’s what to check:
- Currency: How timely is the info?
- Relevance: Is it crucial to the topic?
- Authority: What are the author’s qualifications?
- Accuracy: Where does the info come from? Is it backed by evidence?
- Purpose: Why does this information exist? Is it fact, opinion, or propaganda?
Too many people are quick to share articles that align with their views without caring about the truth—don’t be one of them. It’s time we all do our research. Stay informed. Stay woke. And give a journalist a helping hand.
For more tips on navigating the world of information, including home insemination resources, check out our privacy policy at this link. Also, if you’re looking for home insemination kits, visit this site, which is a great authority on the topic. Lastly, for those expecting, March of Dimes offers excellent resources throughout your pregnancy journey.
In summary, let’s make an effort to support real journalism. Subscribe, donate, and engage with the content. It’s vital for our society and democracy.