Dear CCI Friends,
Veteran NPR Editor, Uri Berliner, reflects on the direction that NPR has taken regarding the definition of diversity and a missing component, diversity of thought. Former NYT reporter John Varoli, based in Russia in the 1990’s, recently returned to Russia and travelled around multiple regions. There was a time when John’s travelogue would have been a welcome contribution to NPR. Would it be that today? Be that as it may, we would like to share it with you alongside Uri’s reflections.
On the topic of day-to-day life. What is important to you in your day-to-day life these days?
All the best to all of you,
The Directors
Center for Citizen Initiatives
How NPR Lost America’s Trust
April 9, 2024
By Uri Berliner
You know the stereotype of the NPR listener: an EV-driving, Wordle-playing, tote bag–carrying coastal elite. It doesn’t precisely describe me, but it’s not far off. I’m Sarah Lawrence–educated, was raised by a lesbian peace activist mother, I drive a Subaru, and Spotify says my listening habits are most similar to people in Berkeley.
I fit the NPR mold. I’ll cop to that.
[Continue to Read Full Article]
Why Biden Doesn’t Want Americans to Travel to Russia
April 3, 2024
By John Varoli
Western perceptions of Russia are based on propaganda wrapped in lies, inside mounds of disinformation. So, what’s the real Russia like? I went there to find out. The results were shocking.