The 51st seeks to redefine D.C. journalism
The 51st has set out to redefine local journalism in Washington, D.C., as one of the country’s growing number of worker-led, nonprofit newsrooms. Launched by a team of former DCist and WAMU journalists after the abrupt closure of their hyper-local site in January, the team said it will focus on stories that matter to D.C. residents, states a post on Editor & Publisher.
Maddie Poore, one of the co-founders, said the aim is to fill the void left by DCist while creating a more sustainable model for local news that aligns with the goals and needs of newsroom journalists. “When DCist was shut down so quickly, there was a lot of pain and anger. But we started thinking about how to do something that better serves all of us.”
While some of those laid off had to focus on securing full-time gigs, continuers the E&P post, a small group began plotting how to build The 51st. The group decided to create a cooperative, worker-led organization that places decision-making power in the hands of the whole staff, allowing them to shape editorial priorities and business strategies collectively.
“We know there’s a better way to work,” said co-founder Teresa Frontado. “I got into journalism to help make a difference in the world. We can do that for the community; that’s what most journalists want to do. And we can do that inside [the newsroom], too.”
The 51st staff in photo above: (l to r) includes Maddie Poore, Abigail Higgins, Colleen Grablick, Natalie Delgadillo, Teresa Frontado and Eric Falquero.
(Photo credit: The 51st)
