The stories and narratives that most impact the lives of low-income people of color are too often not told in traditional media, especially when it comes to the environment. Sensational and over-simplified headlines from local and national news outlets often drown out authentic local narratives, obfuscate facts, and leave little room for the nuanced storytelling that brings light to issues that matter most to disenfranchised communities of color.
To address this challenge, Energy News Network, Planet Detroit, and the Detroit Equity Action Lab seek to lift up and mentor a reporter through a joint reporting fellowship. The selected journalist will co-publish stories in Planet Detroit and Midwest Energy News focused on energy and environment issues with a lens on Detroit and Michigan. We will work with you to identify key skill areas you want to develop.
The Detroit Climate & Environment Reporting Fellow will receive a $3,000 per month stipend for six months to produce stories about the energy and the environment in Detroit. They will receive direct support from editors and mentors within the partner organizations and the larger community, including assistance with framing stories, sourcing, editing, policy, and data expertise.
Black, indigenous, people of color, people with disabilities, and people from underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply.
To apply, send the following items to nina@planetdetroit.org no later than Feb 7, 2022, with SUBJECT LINE: Application for Detroit Energy & Environment Reporting Fellow.
Please include:
- Letter of interest describing why you are interested in this fellowship and how it will help you advance in your career. Include the specific skill areas you hope to develop during your fellowship.
- One short (200 words max) pitch for a story idea you would want to pursue during this fellowship including why your story matters, what angle will you investigate, who is the audience, and who are the sources?
- Resume
- 3-4 clips showcasing your writing and reporting skills. These can be a combination of journalistic and other types of writing.
- Three references. These can be a combination of personal and professional references.
Not sure this is for you but want to chat? Send an email to nina@planetdetroit.org.