In today’s political climate, tensions are always high, protests are frequent, trust in institutions is fragile, and in the middle of it all stands journalism.

One issue facing journalism today is public understanding. Many people no longer fully understand what journalists are meant to do, what ethical standards guide them, and why their role is essential when democracy is at its peak of action.

Freedom of the press is protected in the Constitution. That protection exists for a reason; journalists serve the public by informing them about actions such as protests, elections, public policy and community concerns. They do not exist to participate. They exist to observe, document, question, and inform.

Yet in an era where interest in print newspapers is waving, trust in media has declined, and social media has shaped what we see, the line between journalism and opinion has become blurred. Platforms all across the internet can claim the title of being a news outlet, even when their content is driven by bias, misinformation, or unverified claims. When audiences consume opinion disguised as reporting, public understanding of real journalism weakens.

That misunderstanding has consequences.

If we expect transparency in moments of unrest, journalists are needed to inform audiences of what is happening beyond their immediate surroundings. Very few people can attend political rallies, city council meetings, or national events in person. Reporters gather that information for audiences to ensure these democratic actions are followed and understood. 

An informed public is the foundation of a functioning democracy. A fair voter must seek information. And while no outlet is perfect or completely free of bias, it is the responsibility of each individual person to evaluate sources, compare coverage, and support the journalists they trust.

Journalism is frequently criticized, but its value has not diminished. If anything, it has grown. Just as teachers are valued because they educate the next generation, journalists should be valued because they inform it.

Valuing journalists is not about elevating them above criticism. It is about recognizing their role in preserving public awareness. When political actions increase, journalists ensure all moments of democracy are understood.

If we fail to value journalism, we weaken our access to truth. And without truth, democracy cannot stand.