The Philadelphia Inquirer closes community news desk, sparking outcry over diversity and equity goals

The Philadelphia Inquirer shut down its nearly three-year-old community news and engagement desk last week as part of a reduction of newsroom staffing, which included eight buyouts.

The desk was launched with much fanfare following an extensive listening tour and planning process, with a commitment to better serve traditionally underserved communities. It operated independently of the newsroom, with its own staff of six.

Philadelphia’s population is about 40% African American and 16% Hispanic. In addition to these groups, the desk aimed to enhance coverage of LGBTQ+ and disabled communities.

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