The State of News Deserts in America
The state of news deserts in America is dire. Over the past few decades, the number of locally owned newspapers has sharply declined as advertising revenue has shifted to digital platforms. This has left many communities without a reliable source of local news, and in turn, has weakened the ability of those communities to come together and enact change.
News deserts are defined as areas with limited access to news and information, typically in rural or low-income communities. These areas are not only lacking in local news coverage, but often lack access to reliable broadband internet, which makes it difficult for residents to access news from other sources.
The impact of news deserts can be devastating. In areas without local coverage, residents may not be aware of important issues affecting their community, such as school board decisions, local elections, or changes in local government regulations. This lack of information can lead to apathy and disengagement, with residents feeling disconnected from their community and its larger social and political issues.
The decline of local news is also associated with the phenomenon of “fake news” and misinformation. In areas with limited local coverage, residents may turn to national news sources or social media for information, leaving them vulnerable to inaccurate or biased reporting. This can further polarize communities on important issues and undermine democratic processes.
Several initiatives have been developed to address these concerns. One such initiative is the Local News Lab, which seeks to spur innovation in local journalism and help rebuild the infrastructure of local news. The Lab provides resources and support to news outlets to help them sustain and grow, with a focus on community engagement and public service journalism.
Another effort is the American Journalism Project, which provides funding and resources to non-profit news organizations that focus on local news. These organizations have the potential to fill the gap left by the closure of many local newspapers, providing coverage of important issues in their area and holding local government accountable.
Investing in local journalism is critical to addressing news deserts in America. It is not only about providing information to communities, but also about building trust and engagement within those communities. Local journalism provides a space for residents to have meaningful conversations about important issues affecting their daily lives, and plays a critical role in shaping democracy from the ground up.
The state of news deserts in America is a serious challenge, but it is not insurmountable. With investment and innovation, we can help to rebuild the infrastructure of local news and ensure that all Americans have access to the information they need to stay informed and engaged in their communities.
