Americans face increasing news fatigue and dissatisfaction with national politics. But they often love and value the community they live in — and that offers unique opportunities for local news, including in 2026, our country’s semiquincentennial.
In this “ask me anything” session, Samantha Ragland of the American Press Institute will recount takeaways from recent API Local News Summits on local identity and history and civic discourse across generations. And with the help of guests, she will situate those practical takeaways in the context of a rising trend: collaborations between local media and local influencers.
Across the country, local media are experimenting with how they engage local history and how they work with independent creators or local trusted voices. Come discuss what’s possible — and already happening — as we approach July 4, 2026.
The American Press Institute and the Syracuse University Institute for Democracy, Journalism & Citizenship are collaborating on this session, following IDJC’s sponsorship of API Local News Summit on Inclusion, Belonging and Local Leadership in 2025.