Michigan Radio has been selected to receive a cooperative grant from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation as part of the Detroit Journalism Cooperative for coverage of the city of Detroit as it moves through bankruptcy. The grant is intended to support news in the public interest and improve the quality and quantity of news coverage about Detroit. Data-driven journalism will explain the city’s financial issues and engage citizens in looking at solutions. Michigan Radio’s reporting will focus on the city’s bankruptcy and its impact on community life and the city’s future. Along with Michigan Radio, other partners in the grant include the Center for Michigan, Detroit Public Television (WTVS), Detroit Public Radio (WDET), and New Michigan Media.
“How residents and policymakers understand and deal with Detroit’s crises will have repercussions decades into the future,” said Katy Locker, Knight Foundation’s program director in Detroit. “Some say the bankruptcy could herald the start of a recovery, but that can only happen if the community is informed and engaged and has a plan for continuing improvements the day after bankruptcy. Nonprofit journalism can help.”
Because of Michigan Radio’s large coverage area, the station is in a unique position to share the story of Detroit’s bankruptcy with a statewide audience. Detroit is one of several Michigan communities facing severe financial challenges and under the supervision of an Emergency Manager.
You can learn more about the Detroit Journalism Cooperative here.
