I never aspired to be a journalist. When I enrolled in college, choosing my double majors in English and journalism, it was driven by a vague desire to be a “writer.” I had no clear idea of what that entailed. Lacking an option for “Daydreaming and Typing Half-Baked Stories,” I opted for degrees that seemed to promise a creative yet introspective experience.
Then journalism became a reality check.
As a naïve 19-year-old, I learned that journalism isn’t merely about writing; it’s about the pursuit of truth. It embodies a commitment to fairness, accountability, and the well-being of society. It’s a demanding field, and I now have a profound appreciation for the dedicated journalists out there—those who feel an unwavering drive to report on what truly matters.
Through my classes, I came to understand the crucial, often undervalued, function that journalists serve in a democracy. Their meticulous reporting can dismantle oppressive regimes and even save lives. Icons like Woodward and Bernstein, Cronkite, and Walters are not just names; they are our watchdogs. The extent to which we, as the public, depend on their diligent work is nothing short of remarkable.
However, today, these committed journalists face insurmountable challenges. Their roles are more crucial than ever, and we must rally behind them to ensure they can continue to inform us with accurate facts—not distorted narratives. When those in power attempt to obscure the truth, journalists must be there, asking the difficult questions. When officials provide misleading information, we need journalists to investigate and verify.
If you’re among those who have been keenly following the news and are concerned about the prevalence of fake news, consider supporting impactful journalism. Here are three ways to contribute:
1. Subscribe
While we live in a digital age where news is readily available on social media, it’s essential to remember where these headlines originate—reputable news organizations. Without subscribers and advertisers, these outlets struggle to produce the quality content we need. Many newspapers and magazines currently offer great subscription deals. For instance, I recently subscribed to the digital edition of the New York Times at a reasonable rate—worth it for the daily crossword alone. Publications like Vanity Fair and Teen Vogue have subscriptions for as low as $5/year; the latter features excellent feminist journalism that you shouldn’t miss. Additionally, consider supporting online-only news platforms, radio shows, and podcasts with both your attention and financial backing. Every read and share helps them attract sponsors. You can also explore options to donate to organizations like NPR or Slate, which offer memberships with benefits.
2. Donate
Support the free press by contributing to organizations dedicated to its preservation. ProPublica is an independent nonprofit newsroom focused on investigative journalism that serves the public interest. The Marshall Project works to raise awareness about criminal justice issues, while the Poynter Institute educates aspiring journalists and the public alike. These entities are invaluable; if you can, consider supporting them financially.
3. Read
And I mean really read. Don’t just skim headlines and react. Engage with the articles; delve into the stories and assess the credibility of the sources. Utilize the CRAAP Test—a tool developed by librarians to evaluate information—by checking the currency, relevance, authority, accuracy, and purpose of the content.
Too many individuals rush to share articles that align with their biases without caring about the facts. Don’t be one of them. It’s time to hold ourselves accountable. Stay informed, stay engaged, and lend a hand to a journalist in need.
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In summary, supporting journalism is vital for a well-informed society. By subscribing, donating, and actively reading, we can ensure that truth prevails over misinformation.