A strong community is built on the web of meaningful relationships supporting it. Delaware Online/The News Journal wants to improve in being an immersive partner, a trusted resource in helping underserved residents maximize their stake in community empowerment.
We are endeavoring to make sure these audiences have our listening ears. One way we are doing so is by mobilizing the newsroom, bringing it out into the community in both informal and formal settings. Newsroom staffers have been introducing ourselves to individuals at community organizational events like health fairs, civic association meetings and other resource-awareness opportunities.
As a news media organization, we recognize that our previous coverage has left many feeling overlooked, and we acknowledge that we have lost connections with various communities. In our efforts to provide a more inclusive and representative service, we are organizing small, focused listening sessions. The first one is set for Aug. 16 and is aimed at Wilmington-area Black women, primarily mothers, ages 25-40, who are interested in improving their quality of life with better housing, education and income opportunities. We also welcome social and community influencers who are connected to this demographic. These listening sessions aim to not only strengthen our relationship with the tapestry of people and communities in Delaware, but also attendees to mingle and foster connections.
Furthermore, individuals will have the opportunity to share their thoughts on issues that are important to them, whether it be untold stories they would like to see covered or information and resources they would find most valuable.
We know that having dimensional perspectives is critical to informing our coverage, and the individuals and personal growth opportunities we spotlight. That is why we — Delaware Online/The News Journal — want to engage with you where you interact, directly in the community. We will expand focus groups for other listening sessions, and we would love to know if you would be interested in attending this very first one or those subsequent, if relevant. The invitation also is extended to community groups who would like to partner in facilitating the conversations. Please contact me — Jamesetta M. Walker, editor for emerging audiences and inclusion storytelling — at jmwalker1@gannett.com.
Or, feel free to let us know sooner as you see us at an event near you. I’ll make sure we can’t be missed, and most importantly, that you are heard.
