With so many sources of news available to people these days, where do you get your information? There are major news networks that have social media posts and videos regularly to keep people informed of national and global events, but what about news around where you live? If you have not been supporting your local news networks lately, you really should start now. Many local newspapers and stations have gone out of business in the last 10-15 years, and news deserts (areas with no coverage) have been the result. News deserts leave citizens and communities with little to no knowledge of local community events and business functions, hurting the economy and individual's sense of belonging in the process.
There are so many reasons why supporting your local news is important, including but not limited to:
Two-Sided Stories
Many local stories should be given the due diligence of investigating both sides to important issues. For example, if there are some parents who want a certain policy to change in the local high school, who is reporting on any opposing views? Instead of the loudest group getting their way simply because no one is opposing them, shouldn't both sides be represented? A policy change in a high school would likely affect every student in attendance, but without local news coverage, the issue may simply go unnoticed and undisputed.
Inform Local Voters
With no local papers or networks covering mayoral races or other small elections, a very biased way of reporting has emerged. For example, many campaigns rely heavily on social media, presenting only information that they want the public to know. In the past, local journalists have done the research as to which way nominees tend to vote, helping voters to compare and understand issues from both sides. Now whoever has a better marketing campaign will almost assuredly win. Local news networks are essential for an unbiased opinion and circulation of the facts to viewers.
Build Community
Few things build one's sense of community faster than simply being intuned and informed about local school events, business happenings, and community engagement opportunities. Local news stations allow every citizen to be aware of what is actually happening around them, instead of just on an international or global scale.
In conclusion, local news networks and newspapers are extremely important for local politics, economies, and communities. If you are not supporting yours, it is time to change your ways and begin supporting your hard-working local news providers.
For more information, contact a company like Prince Albert Daily Herald.