People ask me a lot how @PressOn_South defines movement journalism. Well, we don't, not exactly. We aren't trying to become the new gatekeepers of that concept. That said...
@PressOn_South Movement journalism, to me, is about the potential for journalism to be based in and driven by grassroots movements for social justice and liberation. With me?
@PressOn_South It's not "advocacy journalism" exactly...it's more about the idea that journalism should be accountable to people. Not political parties or platforms; not figureheads or foundations. Not rigid ideology or deep pockets.
@PressOn_South And there’s a long history of journalists and outlets who ARE accountable to people and movements...but these stories aren't taught in journalism schools. They are considered "activists" INSTEAD of journalists. Blech.
@PressOn_South We have been trying to help restore that history, and push for its inclusion in journalism education and the journalistic “canon,” through the #ViewFromSomewhere podcast (and through @PressOn_South's training work).
@PressOn_South For me and @ramonammartinez, my main collaborator, this project isn’t just about making our thing (though we love making it). It’s about changing journalism and honoring these fierce voices, making more space in the world for them.
@PressOn_South @ramonammartinez We need journalism that helps us feel hopeful, ready to transform this broken world. That’s what the #ViewFromSomewhere is really about...
@PressOn_South @ramonammartinez That's also what our weird little puppet show is about. Even if you can't give right now, I really want folks to watch and enjoy the show, and feel a little inspired and like another world, another journalism, is possible. kickstarter.com/projects/lewis…
@PressOn_South @ramonammartinez And there are so many ways that aren't financial to be part of the movement to change journalism. Working from inside and outside of organizations to challenge racism, transphobia, classism, and oppressive exclusion and build more trustworthy news outlets.
@PressOn_South @ramonammartinez We want you to feel like you're supported in the struggle for a better world and a more just journalism, to sense that #movementjournalism isn't just a buzzword but a real hopeful concept to hang some hats on. A concept that isn't new, with deep roots in Black liberation...
@PressOn_South @ramonammartinez ...and queer liberation and movements for justice around the world. It's about feeling connected to that struggle and being flexible and relational in the face of oppressive, extractive thinking about what journalism is, what "facts" are. I could go on.
@PressOn_South @ramonammartinez Anyhoooooow. Don't just give bucks. Share your stories of movement journalism, in all the struggles and nuances and unsure points. Join us at a @PressOn_South training or DM me. Let's be co-conspirators. For real. 💋💋💋
