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Beyond the Headlines

Working together to share knowledge and solve local issues.

Beyond the Headlines was a special initiative that explored the vital connection between democracy, journalism, and the humanities. The events and resources responded to concerns about a national decline in local news coverage and growing distrust in the news.

These trends continue to raise serious questions about whether we as citizens can access the information we need to participate knowledgeably in civic life.

Between 2018 and 2022, Wisconsin Humanities worked in Eau Claire, Madison, Superior, Wausau, the Coulee Region, the Greater Green Bay Region, and the Northwoods to identify local issues of concern. These conversations with community members, local leaders, journalists, elected officials, and issue experts resulted in events around the state, a website of resources, and expanded news coverage about Wisconsin water health and the Great Lakes, poverty, law enforcement, and media literacy and transparency.

Beyond the Headlines was part of the “Democracy and the Informed Citizen” Initiative, administered by the Federation of State Humanities Councils. We thank The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation for their generous support of this initiative and the Pulitzer Prizes for their partnership.

Other Programs

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Community Powered

New ways for Wisconsin communities to tell their stories and take concrete steps toward making their hometowns even better places to live

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Human Powered

A podcast produced by Wisconsin Humanities that spotlights communities where imagination and relationships have changed the landscape.

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Love Wisconsin

A digital storytelling project celebrating the humanity in each of our stories.

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Poet Laureate

Wisconsin’s emissary for poetry, creativity, and artistic expression across the state.

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Wisconsin Life

Radio shorts celebrating Wisconsin through the diverse perspectives of its people.

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Odyssey Beyond Bars

Storytelling workshops in Wisconsin correctional facilities.

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