Since the headline somewhat gives it away, I’ll get right to it: In mid-May I’ll be leaving The 51st for a new opportunity in journalism. Despite The 51st being one of my favorite roles I’ve had in local news in D.C., this was an offer I couldn’t pass up.
I’m still more excited than ever about what The 51st is: a publication built by and for D.C. residents. We’ve seen incredible support from all of you who have contributed (allowing us to grow!), come to our events, or just sent us an email with a tip, question, or compliment. (And occasional criticism; we want that too!) The beauty of what The 51st is doing isn’t just that it’s continuing to build the local journalism that D.C. needs, but it’s also trying to do it all in a new way — and with our readers as a central part of the process.
I may be stepping away, but others will be stepping in — and that's a good thing. We're in the process of hiring a new reporter (with over 85 applicants!) and, thanks to all of your support, we'll be hiring for two more positions in the coming months. My leaving is an opportunity for The 51st to bring on new reporters who have their own distinct interests, energy, and ideas of how the city should be covered.
It’s sad to leave a project that started as late-night Zoom calls in the wake of WAMU’s terrible decision in early 2024 to kill off DCist and lay off 16 great people. I was living abroad at the time, joining the planning calls at ungodly hours. But it was exciting (and slightly terrifying) to discuss creating the type of local outlet we had always wanted to see in D.C.
I’ve always envisioned The 51st as a critical entry point and pipeline for local journalism — and we need that pipeline now more than ever. I started in local journalism because DCist let me write some 20 years ago, and I want others to come into local journalism right here with The 51st.
With your help, we’ve already hired one phenomenal new local reporter in Sam Delgado, who started as a freelancer with us and immediately showed an intense curiosity, a deft touch with words, and a commitment to telling stories about local D.C. She’s written about why Pepco bills have gotten so high, the city’s rich tradition and history of hand dancing, and the culture of our local anglers. We’ve also brought on editor extraordinaire Abigail Higgins, and Maddie Poore and Eric Falquero can now dedicate all their attention to fundraising and strengthening the foundation of The 51st. (And we are much better off for it.)
The 51st is a newsroom that’s stronger than any of its individual components, and that’s because of the support readers and residents have provided us. I may not be a reporter with The 51st anymore, but I will absolutely be an avid reader and supporter — just like so many of you who have made this all possible. Join us here!
Martin is a longtime reporter and editor in D.C. He formerly worked for WAMU 88.5 and DCist.com, and has contributed to the Washington City Paper and other publications. He's been in D.C. for 25 years, and tries to ride his bike everywhere he can.
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