We envision a world where Newark residents see themselves represented in the news and play an active role in shaping the narratives about the city where they live. Newark’s future is deeply intertwined with the stories told for, with, and about its people. In order to promote informed and engaged communities, this project creates journalism that centers lived and historical experience as part of supporting community-driven solutions, growth and development.News Voices seeks to elevate the untold and underreported stories of Newark, by listening to city residents, building deep relationships with them, and producing community-centered journalism. A collaborative initiative of WBGO and Free Press, News Voices is a year-long project led by a Newark resident working inside of the newsroom. Brit Harley, a resident of Newark’s South Ward, serves as a respected advocate and voice of the people, so their perspectives, experiences, and expertise are better reflected in news coverage of the city.
