Reading, Writing, and Reporting: A Snapshot of Journalism
In the 1950s and decades that followed, Albuquerque schools sought to promote media literacy. Teaching journalism in schools served as a catalyst for informed citizenship, critical thinking, and the cultivation of future media professionals. Even before the era of widespread misinformation and fake news, understanding the power of the media as an essential component of a functioning democracy has been crucial. Learning about the power of the printed word and radio programming equips students with the ability to discern credible sources, evaluate the information for biases, and understand the ethical responsibilities of media. Whether through print, over the airwaves, or on a television screen, the impact of journalism can be seen through the unwavering commitment of those who dedicated their lives to telling Albuquerque's stories.
Journalism education upholds the fundamental principles of freedom of expression. By educating students about journalistic ethics, rights, and responsibilities, schools foster an appreciation for the importance of robust and independent media. By instilling a deep understanding of journalistic principles and practices, schools contribute to a vibrant local community that values truth, accountability, and the power of responsible storytelling.
Voices of Albuquerque and Community Engagement
Photographs are a key component of journalism and offer opportunities for visual storytelling. The following images document news creation, cultural celebrations, and everyday life, encapsulating the importance of local perspectives providing authentic community engagement.
Albuquerque radio and television origins can be traced back to KOB radio station at what is now New Mexico State University in Las Cruces. Ralph Goddart, the dean of the Engineering School and head of the student Radio Club, founded KOB as a broadcast station in 1922. Moving to Albuquerque in 1932 to be operated by the Albuquerque Journal, the station, now known as KKOB, used to broadcast "Messages to Hunters" in the 1960s. This brief evening program during hunting season carried personal messages like "John Doe, your wife has gone into labor," or "Your cousin has been hospitalized with appendicitis." The station ran afoul of the broadcast rules that say a broadcast station cannot carry "communication" transmissions to any individual but must engage in "broadcasting." The program was abruptly canceled but indicated how media sources have always been dedicated to communication with the local public they serve.
New independent voices were featured in the 1970s and ‘80s that had not been heard before, such as Mary Lynn Roper and Conroy Chino (Acoma), ensuring that New Mexico news consumers experienced diverse voices. While KOAT, KOB, and KGGM dominated the early television scene in Albuquerque, public programming by KNME and KUNM on the radio has allowed a multitude of local voices to reach different communities of New Mexico.
Capturing the Newsroom
Newspaper production, from the conception of a newspaper article through to the paper boys who deliver the daily paper to local homes, is a complex collaboration. Reporters and editors write and oversee the quality of the newspaper’s production, uncovering important news items to inform the public while the editors help shape the narrative. The printers are responsible for transforming the journalists' work into a physical newspaper. Their expertise in managing the printing machinery, setting type, and handling the technical aspects of the printing process is crucial to ensuring the newspaper's timely production. Printers work closely with editors to ensure the layout, formatting, and printing quality meet the newspaper's standards. Finally, the delivery of the physical product ties the newspaper to the local community.
This collaborative effort ensures that news is gathered, presented, and delivered effectively, allowing newspapers to serve as a vital source of information, fostering community connections, and fulfilling the democratic role of the press. Each role is integral to the overall functioning of the newsroom, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and dedication in creating a successful and impactful newspaper.
Albuquerque Progress, the magazine responsible for many of the photographs in this exhibition, was published by Albuquerque National Bank from 1934 to 1965. Its black and white photographs are often the best visual record of individual structures in the city. As Albuquerque’s population grew from approximately 30,000 to over 200,000 people, the magazine recorded and promoted the growth of the city to potential investors and residents.
