by Renna Hwang
Did you know that 63% of Gen Z get their news from social media, while older generations still rely on newspapers and TV? These days, you’re more likely to hear about breaking news from a TikTok slideshow than from a traditional newspaper. But as news consumption shifts, what does that mean for local journalism?
Local newspapers, like The Town Common, have always played a crucial role in keeping communities informed. But in a world of viral trends and 15-second updates, how do younger generations stay connected to their local news? And should we be worried that we’re scrolling past the stories that impact us?
How Gen Z Consumes News
Unlike older generations who grew up with TV news and print newspapers, Gen Z gets its news in fast, digestible formats:
- TikTok – Quick breakdowns of current events, often by influencers or random users.
- Instagram & Twitter (X) – Headlines, memes, and viral discussions make it easy to stay updated (or misinformed).
- Snapchat’s News Feed & YouTube – Short explainers that feel more like entertainment than traditional journalism.
It’s fast, accessible, and engaging but has downsides—misinformation, lack of depth, and an algorithm that mostly shows what you already agree with.
Ms. Lynda Fitzgerald, an English teacher at The Governor’s Academy who has been teaching for over 40 years, has some thoughts on this. “My granddaughter gets all her information from TikTok, and honestly… that worries me,” she said.
She’s not alone. Many adults are skeptical of social media as a reliable news source. “I listen to local Boston news, and I still read newspapers and magazines,” she said. “I don’t trust those platforms… and, well, you all seem to be very dependent on that 10-second-long video.”
While that might be up for debate, one thing is clear: Gen Z and older generations get their news in very different ways.
Why Local News Still Matters
Social media makes it easy to stay updated on global news, but it often misses the local stories that shape our daily lives. That’s where newspapers like The Town Common come in.
Ms. Fitzgerald believes local journalism should be preserved because it connects people to their communities in ways national news doesn’t. “This is the base of where politics start,” she explained. “If we didn’t have these local newspapers, there would be no representation in the long run.”
She also pointed out something many of us can relate to. “I do get local news on my phone, but it’s all breaking news—like a car crash or a shooter,” she said. “I mean, it’s tragic and heartbreaking, but I also want to know other things happening in my community. And that’s what makes local journalism important.”
It’s a good point. Without local newspapers, how would we hear about new businesses, town meetings, or that random festival happening downtown this weekend?
Can Local News and Social Media
Work Together?
While traditional newspapers are still crucial, they don’t have to compete with social media. They can adapt. Some local papers have started using Instagram, Facebook, and even TikTok to connect with younger audiences. Imagine The Town Common sharing quick news updates through Instagram reels or breaking downtown meetings on TikTok.
Could local papers embrace digital trends without losing their identity? Maybe. And maybe it’s up to us, Gen Z, to meet them halfway.
Conclusion: Why We Should Care
As much as we love our fast-scrolling news, there’s still value in slowing down and engaging with local journalism. Whether it’s reading an article online or picking up a paper at a local café, staying informed about our town matters.
So, the next time something big happens in our community, ask yourself: Would you know about it if you only relied on that breaking news headline on your phone? If not, maybe it’s time to check in with The Town Common. ♦
About the Author: I am Renna Hwang, a 10th-grade student at The Governor’s Academy in Byfield. I’ve been passionate about journalism and writing since a young age. Now, as a volunteer journalist for The Town Common, I’m excited to explore local stories and share a fresh perspective on community news.
