Newspapers matter

Oct. 6-12 marks the 79th annual National Newspaper Week, an opportunity to recognize the critical role that newspapers play in an active and healthy democracy.

News Media Canada–the association that represents the Canadian news media industry–is urging Canadians to show their support for newspaper journalism.

“The need for reliable, fact-based news reporting is critical, now more than ever,” said Bob Cox, chair of News Media Canada, about National Newspaper Week.

Studies show that eight in 10 Canadians read a newspaper each and every week, according to Cox, and this week, News Media Canada invites those readers to become advocates for the Canadian newspaper industry, and to vocalize their support for the important work being done by newspapers from coast to coast.

“Let’s send a message to Canadian businesses, advertisers, to all levels of government, and to newspaper journalists that newspapers matter,” stated Cox.

Canadians are strongly urged to pick up a copy of their local newspaper or subscribe (or renew their subscription) this week.

Readers also are asked to visit local businesses who advertise in the Times, and to show their support for the newspaper industry on social media by posting a photo of themselves with their favourite newspaper and sharing why their newspaper matters to them, using #NewspapersMatter.

“Newspapers can’t thrive without our support, as readers, as business owners, and as citizens,” said Cox.

But by no means is National Newspaper Week the only time of the year to show this kind of support.

Every week, we need to stand up for the importance of credible, reliable journalism and support local newspapers, especially the Times.

–Duane Hicks