About This Project
Summary
Northeastern University's "On-the-Ground" initiative, launched in 2019 by journalism professor Carlene Hempel, is designed to shine light on an underreported or unfairly forgotten community suffering in the wake of a crisis. A team of student-journalists immerse themselves in that community and produce a report - with traditional articles, innovative video, audio, photography and graphics - designed to highlight the community's suffering and inspire public support and remediation.
Goals & Objectives
The team went to Flint, Michigan, to revisit the public health crisis created by the city's switch of the water supply to polluted Flint River. Despite deaths and continuing sickness, ten years later, the victims have largely been forgotten. We arrived to revive this issue through deep journalism.
Results & Impact
Our visit led to a community meeting in Flint. The non-profit DCReport published our work, bringing it to a national audience. Also, Northeastern University held a presentation attended by thought-leaders and has inspired future projects, including one to examine hurricane damage in Asheville, NC.
JOIN THE NEWSLETTER