The most apparent beneficial aspect of journalism in modern society is its ability to quickly communicate reliable information for an extensive population. From details on sports, politics, national emergencies and global events, journalism — defined as the collection, preparation and distribution of news — is a critical activity that keeps people entertained, attentive, and informed. As digital communication takes the world by storm, anyone with digital literacy has the ability to spread details to a global audience, which can often prove to be misinformation. With attention shying away from professional journalism, it’s more important now than ever to see its importance. Journalism, the free press, is vital to society due to its ability to prevent corruption and hold governments accountable, to give voices to communities that have less opportunities to share their viewpoints, and to continue the spread of information to local circles through physical media.

   Stated in the first amendment of the United States constitution, “Congress shall make no law…prohibiting the free exercise…of the press…” (constitution.congress.gov). Freedom of the press implies the right that media outlets — including journalists — have to collect and share information, thoughts and opinions without government interference or censorship. A primary role of the free press is its ability to keep the government responsible for their actions. Many news-based press sources take on the role of a watchdog, defined as a form of investigative journalism focused on fact-checking and interviewing political figures to increase government accountability. According to the American Press Institute, a majority of Americans believe that it is important for the press to hold political leaders accountable, along with dealing fairly with all sides within stories, reporting the latest news, and reporting facts with context (americanpressinstitute.org). Along with the power of investigative journalism to uncover scandals, the press has the ability to hold the government accountable by sharing any information they gain with a global audience.

   Another vital aspect within journalism is its ability to give voices to those who would otherwise be silenced. Many communities, whether they be local groups of people or a nationwide minority, have a lack of access to outlets to express their beliefs without fear. A prime example of this is with undocumented immigrants, who may be afraid of expressing their views in public or online, given that it may lead to deportation. Journalists have the ability to privately contact individuals and share their voices anonymously, allowing for more accuracy and truth on important topics where the perspectives of such people are crucial. Despite this, there are ways for anyone to share their voice relatively anonymously to the masses through social media. This has increased the use of citizen journalism, which is defined as “the act of non-professionals, playing an active role in the process of collecting, reporting, analysing and disseminating news and information” (medium.com). Although this can provide unique insider information from those typically unheard, oftentimes unverified sources can lead to misinformation. This means that professional journalism is all the more important, especially if they are credible sources. By allowing those typically unheard to speak to the masses, journalism allows for diversity and a wider viewpoint on topics that involve minorities.

   In the twenty-first century, most of the information spread is done so digitally. Whether it be the news on television, or an article written for a website, or information spread through social media, it’s clear to see that physical media has declined in use over time. Despite this trend, it doesn’t mean that print media has now become useless. According to a website on media publication, “Print media is universally regarded as more trustworthy than its digital media,” which is due in part to its credibility; “Established newspapers and magazines have stringent editorial standards and fact-checking processes in place to ensure the accuracy of their content” (mocktheagency.com). While being a reliable source of information, additionally, newspapers connect a community of people together. “Newspapers not only offer news but also promote local culture and traditions by covering regional events, sharing local stories, and celebrating achievements within the community” (gosharpener.com). While promoting local news and regional stories to those in the areas, local newspapers help give information to those who are digitally illiterate or unable to get online, and would otherwise be unable to access digital news.

   Although news coverage has proven to be of importance to the United States, that doesn’t mean that everyone agrees with this sentiment, especially those in positions of power. Journalism is currently under threat in the United States. According to the History Channel, the Executive Branch of the United States has been historically against free press, with every president in the last two decades attempting to limit press actions and coverage whether it be through unprompted press interaction or by taking legal action (history.com). Additionally, as seen in a study conducted with journalists across the United States, 36 percent experienced physical harassment, 33 percent experienced digital harassment, and journalists are being targeted now more than ever before (iwmf.org). We at The Commander newspaper believe that journalism is a vital part of society — a threat to free press anywhere is a threat to it everywhere.