The decline of local journalism has led to even more out-of-touch reporting on America’s struggling regions and towns — that is, when there’s reporting at all. Now, some cities are taking the narrative into their own hands.
Fed up with the endless negative press, Detroit has hired its first chief storyteller to offer a different perspective on the city and its accomplishments.
Mayor Mike Duggan created the position, now occupied by journalist and author Aaron Foley. Foley and his team of five have launched a website known as The Neighborhoods to highlight the many heartwarming human interest stories in the Motor City.
Inspired by Detroit, Denver hired a chief story teller and launched a new Office of Storytelling in March. The city has rolled out a project called I Am Denver “that engages community, gives voice to underrepresented residents, and captures Denver’s yesterday and today for tomorrow,” according to the website.
Learn more at Governing.