The newspaper is a crucial part of any community. Readers should have access to their own paper and should have input into what it is. Newspapers inform and represent communities, and if anyone would like to see something they’re not seeing, or have questions about the way the Daily works, we would like to provide answers.

One of the Daily’s goals this year is to be more visible and accessible. As a way of reaching that goal we are inviting everyone to the Daily’s first public forum of the year.

Below are the Five Ws and H of The Minnesota Daily public forums. We hope to see you there.

Who

All readers – students, staff, faculty, University community and others – are encouraged to come to the forums.

What

The Daily itself is a public forum. However, it is limited in that people cannot exchange thoughts as freely as at an in-person event. The event will be a discussion about the Daily, coverage, goals and feedback.

The Daily forums are a way to connect with the public it serves. Rather than being held up in our offices we want to take time to talk with you. This is one way to hear how readers feel about the paper, what people wish they would see more of and what the community does not like to see in the Daily.

Why

Every year the newspaper undergoes a large organizational change in some way. Whether it’s the usual change in leadership, or a new focus on content, we want to hear from you about tradition and change.

Newspapers should always accurately represent their community. Those who do and those who do not read the paper should take an active role in suggesting what they like, what they dislike, and what matters.

Every week we get several letters of congratulations, complaint or curiosity. Aside from engaging with this paper via e-mail or telephone, readers and community members should chat with us. The Daily will be explaining more about how the newspaper works, how we make news decisions, and we will be hearing the community’s recommendations.

So why should anyone go? Because the readers’ opinions are crucial. Or here’s another question: What is a newspaper without its community? We want to hear directly from the readers, because without them, it wouldn’t exist.

Where

Coffman Union, Room 325.

When

Friday, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

If you cannot attend, there will be other opportunities to voice concerns. We will host other forums, and as always, we like to hear from you – via letters, phone calls, e-mails or what have you. Other forums will also take place this semester and next semester. Watch for dates and times in the following months.

How

Not everyone must come with suggestions or questions. Just come to talk or listen. If you have suggestions or questions, they are welcome at the forums. Of course they are welcome any time.

Britt Johnsen is editor in chief of The Minnesota Daily. She welcomes comments at [email protected].