Chicago's News Landscape Changing from Print to digital
Local news organizations have found new ways to adapt when faced with national crises. Many are turning toward digital journalism; yet even successful outlets still struggle against an array of online sources that have emerged since.
These new digital players specialize in niche subjects and rely heavily on social media distribution. They are also experimenting with different ways of reporting and engaging the community. They have also opened up new opportunities for writers, some of whom are able to monetize their works via services such as Substack. It has also led to a new kind of journalist, one who is not bound to a single publication and can create e-newsletters on any subject.
Digital startups serve specific needs within communities such as the South and Western sides of New York City. Others aim to hold politicians accountable for their policies; some experiments even receive funding through philanthropy.
The McCormick Foundation is spearheading efforts to enhance local journalism, such as partnering with Chicago-area newsrooms through the Metro Media Lab project to conduct audience research and strategy work. Additionally, the Chicago campus staff of Northwestern University's Medill School of Journalism has worked closely with them to further develop their skills.
Chicago residents reported that they felt the media coverage in their neighborhood was lacking. This varied by region. Certain neighborhoods were misrepresented.
Chicago's news organizations are also proud of their innovative news ecosystem, with for-profit and non-profit outlets running experimental news programs. Some journalists are even trying to build trust with communities and establish themselves in their neighborhoods. They also make sure they provide coverage for traditionally underserved populations in both writing and voice.
Block Club Chicago wrote about Adam Toledo being shot by police a few month after the incident. They took great care not to traumatize their readers, and did not include graphic video footage.
The TRiibe online news outlet is building trust among Black Chicagoans. It was created by three Northwestern University Alumni who were tired that chicago news west loop (
http://Illinoismail.top/) was portrayed in mainstream media, as "the crime capital". They wanted to give their community a voice and empower them with the ability to control its narrative. TRiibes' content has been widely distributed on social media. It is a result of their efforts.