Support VTDigger: A Historian’s Perspective on the Importance
As a historian deeply invested in Vermont’s past and present, Mark Bushnell sheds light on the critical role played by VTDigger in preserving the state’s journalistic integrity and community engagement. Over the past 20 years, the landscape of journalism in Vermont has undergone significant changes due to the rise of the Internet, leading to the decline of traditional newspapers that once served as the cornerstone of local news coverage.
The Decline of Traditional Newspapers
With the advent of the digital era, newspapers across Vermont have faced economic challenges, resulting in severe staff reductions and a loss of resources. However, the importance of journalism in informing citizens and shaping public discourse remains paramount. In this challenging environment, VTDigger has emerged as a beacon of quality journalism, thanks to its innovative economic model supported by reader contributions.
The Impact of Quality Journalism
Mark Bushnell highlights the invaluable role played by journalists in uncovering historical narratives and bringing the past to life through detailed storytelling. By recounting a gripping tale from 1925 involving a missing farmhand and a young girl, Bushnell emphasizes the power of newspapers in documenting significant events and shaping public opinion. Through the lens of historical research, he underscores the importance of journalism in preserving the collective memory of a community.
Supporting VTDigger
In urging readers to support VTDigger through donations and membership, Mark Bushnell emphasizes the critical need for sustaining quality journalism in Vermont. By becoming a sustaining member or making a one-time donation, individuals can contribute to the continued success of VTDigger and enable journalists to delve deeper into important stories that resonate with the community.
Through his personal reflections and historical insights, Mark Bushnell underscores the enduring value of journalism in connecting the past with the present and empowering citizens to stay informed. As readers consider the impact of their support for VTDigger, they are reminded of the vital role played by journalists in shaping the narrative of Vermont’s history and future.
