An antidote to despair
Focusing on what we can do.
We’re feeling a lot right now, and we imagine you are too. It’s easy to get overwhelmed, but focusing on the things we do know and that we can control helps. And we know D.C. needs quality news and information, and that local action creates powerful change.
Today, we published an explainer on what Republican control could mean for D.C., and a roundup of ways to plug into the local organizing and volunteer work already underway.
This is just the start of the coverage that’ll be necessary over the coming weeks, months, and years. D.C.’s lack of statehood means its 678,972 residents are in a uniquely vulnerable position. There are many unanswered questions about what this new administration will mean for us and our neighbors. But considering the federal government has already meddled in everything from D.C.’s ability to legalize sales of recreational marijuana, to its traffic laws —and that Republicans have even floated the idea of repealing home rule altogether — we have a few informed guesses.
It is critical that we have an eagle eye on the plans Trump and his allies have for D.C. and the people who call it home. But it is also crucial that we amplify our collective strengths – D.C. is an overwhelmingly progressive city, filled with people who care and who have a close proximity to major levers of power.
Local news can accomplish both of those things – hold the powerful to account and highlight paths for change. And that’s exactly what we want to continue doing in the weeks, months, and (we hope) years ahead. We’re more energized by our mission now than ever: that local news should make people’s lives better, and equip them with the knowledge to make informed decisions.
If action is the antidote to despair, focusing on small and local solutions is the answer to overwhelm.
We need your help to get there! So far, 910 of you have joined as paying members (THANK YOU) and if we can make it to 1,000 by the end of the week, we will be on track to be funded well into 2025. If you already have, or if you're unable to support with your dollars right now, helping spread the word (posting our coverage and encouraging your friends to subscribe) is critical too.
Help build a strong, local, independent news outlet that D.C. deserves.
With love, care, and solidarity,
Natalie Delgadillo & The 51st Team
P.S.
You can trust, you’ll never find us doing this:
