From block to block, Philly’s neighborhood journalists redefine local news.
The way we share and receive news is changing fast. Headlines come and go in seconds. Articles get skimmed, if not skipped. On platforms like TikTok and Instagram, the story is often over before it even begins.
That tension—between what’s real and what just goes viral—was front and center at this year’s Civic News Summit at WHYY (April 4 – 5). The event brought together journalists, media makers, and community members to talk about what local news could look like: slower, deeper, and actually connected to the people it claims to serve.
It wasn’t just theory, either, the summit’s conversations felt organic, like they were unfolding in real time as people with various viewpoints discussed what trust means in media, and how we get there.
The panel that stood out most to me focused on “engagement journalism” — what it is, what it isn’t, and how it helps to build trust and accuracy in today’s media coverage. Moderated by Gene Sonn of Resolve Philly, three very different speakers found common ground through shared goals and lived experiences.
Hector Nuñez of Wooder Ice lifestyle magazine talked about the power of showing up—being on the ground, consistently, even when there’s no headline. That kind of presence, he said, builds relationships that no amount of social media reach can replicate. When you’re part of the rhythm of a place, people start to trust that you’re not just there to take.
Temple professor and investigative journalist Linn Washington brought a long view to the conversation, reflecting on his coverage of the MOVE bombing in the 1980s. Even decades later, he said, the backlash he received for reporting both sides honestly still lingers. His point was clear: when journalism does its job, it doesn’t always make people comfortable. But it should always tell the truth.
And then there was Tamara “P.O.C.” Russell of Revive Radio who spoke about finding her way into journalism without credentials or a blueprint. What she had was purpose, passion, and a deep desire to keep the mic close to the people who need it most. With Revive Radio, she built her own platform from the ground up, through events, outreach, fellowships, local support, and a lot of faith.
With authenticity so key to community news, I appreciate how POC’s open-hearted approach creates a judgement-free zone where people feel comfortable sharing. And whether she’s running a segment, guiding The Local, or mentoring a young journalist like me, her work reflects a rare dedication that’s hard to fake.
That commitment was on full display earlier this spring, when the Philadelphia Association of Black Journalists honored P.O.C. with this year’s Community Award at their annual brunch.
The event was full of love and legacy—celebrating three women who have not only made space for others, but reshaped what that space looks like. When P.O.C. stood to speak, she didn’t talk about herself. She talked about us: the people doing the work, telling the stories, and spreading the truth as we know it.
Revive Radio shows how grassroots media engages its own special tool kit to reach people where they are with stories to inform, uplift, and highlight their lives.
What this side of journalism lacks in funding or traffic, it makes up in community credibility. And in a world that’s increasingly loud, fast, and disconnected, that kind of trust is worth protecting. While WHYY’s summit didn’t have any easy answers, it offered something better: a clear reminder of why this work matters now more than ever.
🔌 Tap In ⚡⚡⚡
📻 Follow POC at reviveisalive.com and catch her hosting ECO WURD Magazine on 96.1FM every Friday (10–11am) or tune in on youtube @REVIVE_POC.
🤝 Explore WHYY’s Bridging Blocks series for free community events focused on civic dialogue and neighborhood connection.
🎉 Congratulations to POC, winner of the PABJ’s 🏆 Community Award for 2025—along with NBC10’s Erin Coleman 🌟 (Woman of Inspiration Award) and Fox29’s Shawnette Wilson 👑 (Icon Award). Thank you for your service and your voices! 🖤📣
Compiled and adapted from Kennedie Scurry’s coverage on TheKenloShow.com.
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