We're excited to announce the launch of our fundraising campaign as we build The 51st—a new, worker-led local news outlet created by and for the residents of the District of Columbia. Our team, forged from a blend of notable WAMU and DCist alumni, brings over 50 years of collective experience covering the city, and we’re dedicated to making it easier to live, work, and play in D.C. As we embark on this startup phase, we're laying the foundation for a nonprofit built in public, with every community member having a say in how our newsroom operates. Our democratic, worker-led model means that decisions around funding and editorial direction are made together, ensuring that the dollars raised directly support the creation of valuable, trusted local journalism.
So far, while we have raised $0, every effort is dedicated to fueling this ambitious vision. The funding we aim to secure will go toward forming our nonprofit legally, compensating our talented writers and editors, and establishing the essential infrastructure for our newsletter, website, and community events. This capital is not merely a financial boost—it’s an investment in a future where local journalism cuts through the noise, holds our city’s bad actors accountable, and celebrates the unique spirit of D.C. By supporting The 51st, you’re championing a more transparent and locally accountable media landscape, crafted by those who live it. We invite the community to join us in this groundbreaking journey, as together, we transform local news into a true public good that makes our city a better, more informed place for everyone.








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