Charleston City Paper Nominated for Three National Awards
In a significant nod to local journalism, the Charleston City Paper has been selected as a finalist for three national newspaper awards by the Association of Alternative Newsmedia (AAN). The announcement comes ahead of the AAN’s annual meeting, which, for the first time, is being held in Charleston.
About the Conference
The event, which runs from Wednesday to Friday, is attracting over 150 journalists from across the nation. In addition to networking opportunities, the convention offers workshops and information sessions aimed at enhancing the quality and reach of independent news outlets. Participants will also experience Charleston’s rich cultural heritage through a boat tour and visits to key sights including the International African American Museum (IAAM) and Bowen’s Island.
City Paper’s Achievements
The City Paper bagged nominations in three categories. The first, for ‘Special Print Section’, recognises the outstanding one-time sections produced by AAN newspapers during 2023. The Charleston City Paper’s nomination in this category acknowledges their special 48-page publication on the opening of the International African American Museum (IAAM), aptly named “Journeys: Welcoming the International African American Museum”.
In the ‘Special Print Publication’ category, which distinguishes more regular print sections by newspapers, the City Paper gained recognition for its Fall 2023 edition of Dish. Dish, the City Paper’s quarterly magazine, sheds light on the culture of food and drink in the area. The latest issue of the magazine is due for release on July 26, 2024.
In the ‘Political Column’ segment, the City Paper’s editor and publisher, Andy Brack, was nominated for his columns on racism, gun violence, and political dysfunction. This marks Brack’s second nomination in the category, following his win in the previous year’s awards.
Illuminating Local Issues
Upon receiving the nominations, Brack expressed the City Paper’s pride in being a member of AAN, whose member organizations embody an alternative to corporate and hedge-fund-owned media conglomerates. He stressed the importance of independent outlets like the City Paper in providing critical coverage of local issues. A sentiment echoed by the recent distinction of Charleston City Paper as the state’s top large weekly newspaper by the S.C. Press Association in March 2024.
Looking Forward
These nominations underscore the prevalent role of local journalism in bringing light to integral community issues. As the event commences, journalists from an array of AAN member newspapers will continue learning, exchanging ideas, and recognizing one another’s contributions to the essence of independent journalism.
