01/28/2025
📰 The Decline of Local News: A Growing Crisis 📰
In the latest issue of O’Dwyer’s, our CEO and Founder, April White, tackles the urgent issue of America’s disappearing local news outlets and what it means for PR professionals, brands, and democracy itself.
With 127 newspapers closing in 2024 alone and 55 million Americans now living in news deserts, the ripple effects of this crisis are undeniable. Citizens are increasingly turning to social media, word-of-mouth, and even government agencies for local updates—a shift that fuels misinformation and erodes informed decision-making.
April outlines practical ways PR pros can make a difference:
✨ Supporting local outlets through sponsorships
✨ Reprioritizing local/regional media in PR strategies
✨ Leveraging digital storytelling and community engagement
Local news is the heartbeat of democracy and community connection. It’s time for all of us—brands, publicists, and citizens alike—to step up and ensure its survival.
📖 Read the full article in O’Dwyer’s January issue to learn how you can help.