The journalism industry has undergone massive changes in recent decades. Faced with increasing competition, media companies are consolidating operations and outsourcing local jobs. Meanwhile, newspapers faced with dwindling advertising revenue are cutting staff and reducing daily circulation. While Cleveland is not alone in seeing a reduction in local journalism, the Cleveland community has been hit particularly hard by the recent shuttering of the Plain Dealer's newsroom. As we continue to address challenges and demand change, having reliable reporting is now more important than ever.

Please join the ACS Northeast Ohio, Austin, Bay Area, Chicago, Columbus, DC, Madison, and St. Louis Lawyer Chapters for a timely and important conversation regarding the changes in Cleveland's media landscape. Our panelists will discuss the results of severe cuts to local news organizations and how this affects the information the public receives. The program will specifically address how cuts to local journalism have impacted the coverage of systemic racism, criminal justice reform, and police accountability.

This event will feature:

Sam Allard, Senior Writer, Cleveland Scene Magazine
Rachel Dissell, Freelance Journalist
Sia Nyokor, Reporter & Weekend Anchor, WOIO-TV, Channel 19 News
Michael Tobin, Vice President of Communications, Government and Community Affairs, MetroHealth System

Moderated by:

Romney Smith, 3News Anchor and Reporter for WKYC, Cleveland

As the nation's leading progressive legal organization, ACS is committed to ensuring that all aspects of our events are accessible and enjoyable for all. If you require any accommodations, please contact us at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .