A McCormick Foundation Initiative

Why News Matters

Is your news diet well-balanced?

Find a balanced mix!

In today’s world of 24/7 connectivity and smart devices, it’s harder than ever to distinguish between news and noise. A Pew Research Center survey found that 70 percent of respondents feel overwhelmed by the amount of news and information from different sources, and 72 percent think most sources of news are biased.

Why News Matters has gathered the best and brightest groups in Chicago to organize journalism programs, current event discussions and news programming all around the city. There organizations are working to make news better, more useful and more enjoyable for you, your friends, family and colleagues.

Fresh Voices

Why does news literacy matter to communities?

To be news literate is to build knowledge, think critically, act civilly and participate in the democratic process.

What can I do?

Help your children, family and community members find critical information and develop a sense of ethics as digital citizens and media makers. There’s plenty of resources to help.

How can I get involved?

From coffee shop meet-ups, after school classes to weekend events, there’s a news literacy program happening near you. Find a program for a child, family member, friend or colleague now!

Sign-up for The Source

Stay on top of news literacy efforts in Chicago with The Source, a monthly email newsletter with the latest on news literacy programming, research and events.