The Agora Journalism Center is focused on strengthening the local information landscape through fostering and nurturing community-centered journalism. Our four pillars are:
Building a collaborative, sustained laboratory for improving the local information ecosystem in Portland and Oregon
Creating and sharing research, case studies, tool kits and insights to disseminate across the news industry and throughout the nation
Pioneering a rigorous, ongoing assessment of the health of information ecosystems in Oregon
Developing curriculum focused on how media can innovate to regain relevance and purpose through community-centered journalism
As a program of the University of Oregon’s School of Journalism & Communication since 2015, we learn and engage primarily with our home region in the Pacific Northwest, but share and collaborate with the wider world through research, publications, digital platforms, and live events.
The Agora Journalism Center collaborated with writer and community organizer Bruce Poinsette and sponsor “Black News Future,” a 3-part panel series dives into the evolving landscape of Black media in Portland, with a particular emphasis on the future of print journalism, exploring the challenges, opportunities, and innovations shaping how Black stories are told and shared, both locally in Portland and on a broader scale.Each panel features Portland’s Black media community guests, ranging from columnists to podcasters to editors and more.
Black News Future: Print Journalism
This insightful panel explores the evolving landscape of Black media, focusing on the challenges and opportunities within print journalism. Panelists delve into the historical significance of Black-owned publications and their role in shaping cultural narratives. They examine how digital innovation, audience engagement, and community-centered storytelling are redefining traditional print journalism. The discussion highlights the importance of preserving authentic voices in Black media while adapting to a rapidly changing media environment. With perspectives from industry leaders and emerging voices, the panel offers a roadmap for sustaining and revitalizing Black media for future generations.
Panelists: Bruce Poinsette, Mac Smiff, Jenni Moore, Donovan Smith
GALLERY
Black News Future: Voice Broadcast
This dynamic panel delves into the future of Black media, with a focus on the audio landscape, including radio and podcasting. Featuring voices from Portland's only Black-owned radio station, The Numberz FM, the discussion examines the vital role of audio media in amplifying Black stories and perspectives. Panelists explore the challenges of building sustainable Black media infrastructure, highlight the innovative projects reshaping the industry, and share insights into how radio and podcasts can foster deeper community connections. The conversation offers inspiration and actionable ideas for driving the evolution of Black audio media.
Panelists: Bruce Poinsette, Morgan Jones, Kan Jones
Black News Future: Media and Politics in Local Campaigns
This engaging panel examines the intersection of local politics and media, highlighting how traditional journalism and editorial coverage shape campaigns addressing Black issues. The discussion explores the influence of media narratives on public opinion and policy, using examples like the Rose Quarter development project and recent non-general elections. Panelists unpack the challenges and opportunities in ensuring equitable representation in political storytelling while advocating for a more inclusive approach to covering community-impacting decisions. This conversation offers valuable insights into the power of media in driving change and amplifying voices in the political arena.
Panelists: Bruce Poinsette, Candace Avalos, Sen. Akasha Lawrence Spence & Winta Yohannes