journalism

History and media panel weighed in on current First Amendment controversies

BY: - October 11, 2022

In a forum held by the Columbus Metropolitan Club on Wednesday, Mike Thompson moderated a panel discussion with professionals in the media and academic fields about ways that the first amendment is being challenged now and where that leaves the state of journalism in the future. Panelists also contemplated the impact social media platforms have for the spread of misinformation.

COMMENTARY

Fear of reporters is fear of the truth

BY: - October 10, 2022

In the weeks after he assumed office, former President Donald Trump put reporters in the crosshairs when he labeled them “the enemy of the American people.” He was following the authoritarian playbook, long consulted by the likes of Stalin and Hitler, but it was shocking to see such strongman rhetoric coming from an American leader, […]

COMMENTARY

Journalism in middle America got communities through the pandemic

BY: - November 19, 2021

By William Thomas Mari, Louisiana State University News of the pandemic’s devastating effect on journalism was conveyed by headlines across the nation telling of newsroom closures, layoffs and furloughs. Journalism was in trouble in 2020. In fact, it had been in trouble for a while. But how did so many local news organizations – especially […]

COMMENTARY

The Post at Ohio University is in jeopardy. Here’s the case for saving it

BY: - June 24, 2021

By Joe Donatelli — (Commentary originally published on Substack) News of The Post’s pending demise is spreading far and wide. Here’s the gist, from The Athens NEWS: Ohio University student news organization The Post is at risk of losing its sole full-time employee who raises money for the publication, posing a potential existential threat to a 100-year-old […]

COMMENTARY

During Sunshine week, Ohio leaders show value of open gov’t during public health crisis

BY: - March 20, 2020

In a public health crisis, nothing is more vital for our citizenry than honest and accurate information.  Most Americans are getting that information during this COVID-19 pandemic — from health experts, media outlets and government officials. This is what makes reports of Chinese government censorship during this crisis even more jarring. The New York Times […]

COMMENTARY

Memories of the Newseum and thoughts about its role as it closes

BY: - December 26, 2019

Now here’s a sad news lede to report: the Newseum is closing forever in just a few days.  The museum dedicated to the Freedom of the Press will close after educating visitors for the past decade in Washington D.C. For years, it has honored the importance of journalism and highlighted the efforts of reporters — […]

COMMENTARY

Welcome to the Ohio Capital Journal, reporting for the people

BY: - December 3, 2019

We live in a world of uncertainty. Some of that uncertainty stems from the human condition, the nature of existence and the nature of civilization. Some of it is intentionally manufactured by those acting in bad faith to further personal and professional ambitions, or to cover up corruption and wrongdoing. The role and responsibility of […]