Uncovering Truth: The Power of Investigative Journalism
Texas Southern University is breaking ground this semester with a new class that promises to be a game-changer in journalism education. In collaboration with renowned journalist and author Nikole Hannah-Jones, students will delve into the world of investigative journalism and learn to hold the powerful accountable.
Why is this class so important? Let’s look at three pivotal moments in history that were brought to light by investigative journalists:
1. The U.S. government’s COINTELPRO program, which targeted Black leaders and progressive movements.
2. The CDC’s Tuskegee Syphilis Study, a horrific crime against humanity that targeted Black men.
3. The Iran-Contra Affair, a scandal in which arms were illegally sold to Iran to fund the Contras in Nicaragua, leading to the proliferation of drugs and weapons in Black communities.
These examples underscore the crucial role investigative journalism plays in uncovering truth and exposing injustice.
The brainchild of Nikole Hannah-Jones, the “Investigative Journalism” class is a collaboration between TSU and Howard University’s Center for Journalism and Democracy. This initiative aims to train the next generation of investigative journalists at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
Students will have the opportunity to learn from industry experts, including Hannah-Jones herself, and gain hands-on experience in investigative reporting. The course will also emphasize the importance of partnering with local Black Press to amplify underrepresented voices.
With a grant of $29,200 from the Center for Journalism and Democracy, TSU is enhancing its student newsroom and funding investigative projects that shed light on important stories in the community.
As journalism professor Serbino Sandifer-Walker aptly puts it, “In a time of rampant misinformation, it is crucial for trained journalists to uncover the truth and provide accurate information to the public.”
Join us on this journey of discovery and empowerment through investigative journalism!