Who is allowed to access and share information? This is a question that comes up in our NCC creator discussions. As we find more “individuals selectively accept[ing] news from diverse channels, instead of obtaining information from official news outlets,” our definitions of who owns legitimate information distribution changes.

Whether we’re defining primary sources or questioning who has a right to request public records, we’re always thinking about how information systems have not been explained well to the general public, and how creators fill this gap with community and empathy. We can’t mistake the role of trust and enjoyment in how fact is remembered and shared by our audiences. And that’s why it’s so important for all of us to understand how to read and analyze information.

After the first few classes, our cohort introduced the concept of primary and secondary sources to their own audiences in ways that instruct them to be more critical about sources around them. They chose to not simply cite their sources, but also explain the methods of identifying and using primary sources and public documents in an effort to help their audiences fight misinformation on their own. And they did this across multiple mediums.

Here are just a few of their posts:

We’re hosting our first in-person workshop in Philadelphia, home to lots of mini newsrooms, independent journalism and creators across all beats and mediums. We’re meeting at a super fun venue for an interactive event where we’ll learn from Michael Morisy of MuckRock, discuss how our work as creators impacts our networks, and understand how to cite facts and public records.

If you’re in the area, I’d love to see you.

Caliber is launching a SaySo, a news and information app curated to user interests, powered by the expertise and passion of independent creators, and built on transparency. Their platform brings together the voices of vetted creators to help users understand the topics they care about most through credible content with context, perspective and clarity. The user-curated algorithm also provides personalized content experiences that allow your work to reach those who are seeking it most. They are inviting a select group of trusted, mission-aligned creators to join the Founding Creator Program — an exclusive group that will be the first to onboard and help shape the future of how information is shared and monetized. If you’re interested in learning more directly from the team behind the app and exploring what it means to be a founding creator, please reach out Courtney Christine ([email protected]), include your social channels, and mention NCC in your email.

Here’s what we’ve heard since launch: This is so needed, and it needs to be bigger. Our ambition is to build on our pilot and launch several classes next year, bringing the training program to high school classes, college students, and current journalists, in addition to trusted creators. You can support our mission by following us on LinkedIn, amplifying our posts and connecting us to potential partners and funders.