Dearest Strand reader,
I feel that student journalism can represent the purest form of journalism itself. We are acute case studies in local reporting. The Strand is funded by a student levy, which allows for us to exist without the worries of attracting advertisers or giving in to the field of rage bait. Local journalism as a whole is a threatened industry, with 36 Canadian local news outlets closing in 2023. These outlets serve as a set of cheques and balances for local power authorities, who have significant control over our daily lives. Larger outlets and media conglomerates rarely focus on local or student issues, unless they can spin topics into sensationalised coverage. In order to protect and promote the values of transparency and accountability on campus, students need to engage with student publications. Ask questions, demand answers, share your thoughts.
We need culture, we need criticism. We need news that reflects our daily lives, and we need platforms for our voices. The centre of The Strand’s business is truth and excellence. Our job, as the paper of record for Victoria University, is to be that platform for students, to ask our questions, and to challenge the university itself. We at The Strand are excited to flagrantly enjoy our editorial autonomy as a student-run publication, no matter the threats or intimidation we experience from certain administrators. Volume 67 hopes to exemplify the values of transparency, accountability, and journalistic excellence, as our job is the truth, and the truth shall make you free.
All the best,
Michael
