Years ago, I watched The Edward R. Murrow Show when he interviewed celebrities and newsmakers. George Clooney played Murrow in the TV Broadway show Good Night and Good Luck, which recently closed.
After the show, a follow-up discussion highlighted key points about speaking up and telling the truth to those in power. The focus then shifted to the idea that The Media has lost its power and is no longer trusted today. The panel agreed that the country is being tested and must speak truth to power. Journalists asked each other, “How do we get through it?”
Connie Chung, a former media journalist, highlighted essential issues, including reduced fact-checking in the media and the fact that 99% of reports on most channels come from Democrats. Other journalists advised against living in fear of one another, not being afraid to lose their jobs, and avoiding fear of government retaliation. They concluded that it would take courage to get through this time in our country. Journalism can be saved, and we can save the country if we dare to speak up.
I am not a journalist, but most citizens agree that the media is unbalanced and doesn’t seem willing to listen to the people. As a crime and violence prevention consultant and author of five books on home, Family, teen, neighborhood, and community safety and Health, I want to share my “truth to power.”
Politicians and citizens tend to see problems and solutions through their long-held beliefs. That’s why many Democrats and Republicans vote the same way every election year. They don’t listen to community problems or consider new solutions. The media could help citizens become more open-minded if they discussed different perspectives. National journalists and major media outlets have ignored the voices of “we the people.” The Media can expand the discussion beyond “if it bleeds, it leads.”
Americans need a balance between sensational headlines and the reality of people’s lives.
Here are some ideas for making the national media more inclusive:
The public cannot always relate to politicians and infighting. However, the public can connect with community Experts who discuss child abuse, child sex trafficking, gang violence, drug abuse, youth suicide, child neglect, and ways neighbors can help prevent and stop crime. The media needs to open the discussion to unheard voices. Involved citizens, not politicians, can address these topics.
Children are America’s future! The major news media must stop assuming politicians have all the answers and focus on what Americans can do to protect and strengthen their communities. If journalists let the people talk, they will see that we, the people, can help reduce the high cost of homelessness, gangs, child abuse, sex abuse, street violence, and drugs.
If the media broadens its view, it will inspire citizens to think more broadly. Americans and the press need to move past political conflicts and “groupthink.” It’s easy to go along with the crowd, but it takes courage to think differently. In a democracy, we must appreciate independent thinkers among us. Many community workers have never had the opportunity to share what they’ve learned that could help others.
Major media seldom cover the struggles of American families and children. If they keep playing “gotcha” with politicians, real solutions won’t be found. We can expect more violence against citizens, leaders, and political representatives if the way news is presented doesn’t change daily. Americans need to hear from involved citizens who are making a difference and sharing their success stories. Let’s recognize the innovators, non-conformists, and good people among us. The media can help broaden our thinking. Our Founding Fathers created America for We the People, not for politicians. Freedom of speech is the power and backbone of America!
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Originally Published on https://safekidsnow.com/
