West Central Initiative invites the community to an eye-opening conversation about the future of local journalism. These events will feature a screening of Stripped for Parts: American Journalism on the Brink, followed by a discussion on the vital role of local news in keeping communities informed, engaged, and connected.

Ben Schierer, Director of Civic Partnerships at West Central Initiative, emphasized the importance of these events in promoting local journalism in the region. 

“The connection between local journalism and civic participation is well documented, as are the challenges that local newspapers across the country face,” said Schierer. “Simply put, the health of our communities relies on trusted sources of local news. These community conversations strive to foster civic dialog about issues that matter to all of us.”

Join WCI for a screening near you:

April 14: Wheaton Community Library

April 16: West Central Research and Outlook Center in Morris

April 21: Douglas County Library in Alexandria

April 23: Pelican Rapids Public Library

The events are free and open to all. Registration is not required. The screenings will start at 5:30 p.m., with conversation to follow.

About the film

Stripped for Parts: American Journalism on the Brink tells the story of a secretive hedge fund that is dismantling local newspapers for profit—and the journalists fighting back to save and rebuild local journalism across the country. Who will control the future of America’s news ecosystem: corporate investors or those who see journalism as an essential public service?

For more information, visit www.wcif.org/events or contact Director of Civic Partnerships Ben Schierer.