With the nation watching closely, the Minnesota Star Tribune has risen to the challenge in the face of unrest in Minneapolis. This past month, the outlet has been instrumental in breaking crucial stories, including the identity of an immigration enforcement officer involved in a shooting and has produced various articles that shed light on the complex issues at hand.
One particularly striking image captured by Richard Tsong-Taatarii depicts a protester being sprayed with a chemical irritant during a demonstration, capturing the raw tension of the moment. The local news outlet has adapted its coverage style following increased ICE actions, demonstrating a shift towards more impactful reporting.
At a time when many regional newsrooms are struggling, the Star Tribune has maintained a steady workforce under billionaire owner Glen Taylor, who has invested in both its digital transformation and staff. This preparation has enabled the outlet to respond effectively during a time of crisis.
“If you hadn’t invested in the newsroom, you wouldn’t be able to react in that way,” said publisher Steve Grove.
Embracing a Rich Tradition of Journalism
Minneapolis boasts a rich journalistic ecosystem, enhanced by local public radio and digital newsrooms like Sahan Journal, which focuses on diverse communities. Senior vice president and editor Kathleen Hennessey noted the strong community support for local journalism, especially during turbulent times.
Local reporters have a distinct advantage in covering community issues. For example, when ICU nurse Alex Pretti was shot in January, Star Tribune reporter Josie Albertson-Grove utilized her neighborhood knowledge to provide accurate, detailed reporting. Connections within the community have proven invaluable during this unrest.
Additionally, conversations among local families have revealed the pervasive fear within immigrant communities regarding ICE operations. Columnist Laura Yuen shared her family's new apprehensions, further illustrating the deep tension felt in the Twin Cities.
Reporting on law enforcement's use of chemical agents, reporters have highlighted the potential health risks associated with such actions, raising critical questions about public safety.
Under Hennessey’s leadership, the Star Tribune has tackled various major stories, adapting its coverage methods to include more live updates and multimedia, increasing readership and donations significantly.
“People have changed how they consume news,” Hennessey remarked, noting that readers are engaging with the site multiple times throughout the day to stay informed.
A Digital-First Future
The Star Tribune continues to evolve under Grove's influence, navigating the challenges faced by local news organizations across the country. Despite aggressive transitions and downsizing, they maintain their status as a key newsroom in the Midwest, reflecting the importance of robust local journalism in times of crisis.
“We’re tired of being in the international spotlight and it’s never for something positive,” reporter Liz Sawyer concluded, highlighting the collective fatigue felt among local journalists. Yet, the dedication to community and public service journalism remains a significant force driving their work.
