March 31st: Media

This afternoon's #351GratitudeMoment lifts up the field of journalism. And, the critical role that the media plays during a time of crisis. In an era when media operates with fewer resources and leaner staffs, our local, regional, and national journalists are pursuing facts, information, and guidance in extreme conditions with greatest excellence. And, often at risk for their own health, as increasing numbers of the media are affected and afflicted by the coronavirus.

Despite challenge, they remain resolute in their passion for the truth. As Kristin Roberts, vice president of news for McClatchy news service tweeted, “Journalism’s most critical role in a crisis is to provide information people need to make decisions for the safety of family and community. That is our mission.”

To support that mission of care through informing our greater knowledge, media outlets have removed paywalls, created websites, expanded programming, and innovated social media. And, they've also served an essential role in providing hope and lifting spirits. Each day, they showcase the heroes, frontline workers, and acts of grace that remind us of our common humanity and that we're all in this together.

We are grateful for every one of our local journalists and outlets -- from radio shows to weekly newspapers to major news outlets. But, we want to share a special word of thanks for our media partner WBZ-TV and 2020 Service Hero Lisa Hughes. We always feel so fortunate for their partnership, which celebrates the unlimited potential of all young people to be positive agents of change. But, we've been especially proud of and grateful for their leadership throughout these uncertain times.

And, we offer this WBZ-TV video invitation to share gratitude as an opportunity to build hope and a reserve of strength and unity for the days ahead.

To WBZ-TV, Lisa, and every journalist and media outlet, we offer this heartfelt #351GratitudeMoment.

Check out the #InThisTogether video here: WBZ Share Your Video