In a year of digital growth, the Indianapolis Recorder’s top stories for 2023 resonated with new audiences and garnered engagement for critical narratives surrounding the community.
Over the course of 2023, IndianapolisRecorder.com received over 1,985,860 views with 1,665,083 users visiting the site.
“I’m incredibly proud of how our team has enhanced our electronic presence over the past year. Writing informative articles, regularly engaging our audience and ensuring we use compelling images are all components that resulted in more digital clicks and viewers,” said Indianapolis Recorder President and CEO Robert Shegog.
He said people want a realistic interpretation of what is happening in this city, country and world.
Although that reality may be uncomfortable and even triggering for some of their audience, they appreciate and receive the hard facts as opposed to a watered-down version of reality.
Shegog said the latter would be a disservice to the community and the newspaper. People are drawn to truth, and that is what the Recorder represents.
Recorder rewind: Top stories
“I’m very proud of the Recorder’s increased presence online. We are engaging new audiences in new ways, and I believe that will serve to enhance the legacy of the Recorder well into the future,” said Editor-In-Chief Camike Jones.
“The Recorder tells many types of stories, and I think people are drawn to stories that speak to their experiences. I also think the readers look to the Recorder to tell the human side of stories; to focus on the people behind the headlines.”
Jeana Ouattara first started working at the Indianapolis Recorder in 1998. With recent big stories, like Black Lives Matter protests for George Floyd, she said over the time she has been with the paper, there have been many important stories told.
She remembers the paper covering the Columbine Shooting in 1999, Barack Obama’s journey to becoming a U.S. president, and the Million Woman March.
“The recognition of Black and diverse narratives is imperative in today’s digital world. As we all accept technological advancements, the shift toward becoming digital becomes crucial for the widespread [reach] of our stories,” said Ouattara.
“Acknowledging the significance of inclusivity and the right to be heard, the transition of the Recorder Newspaper into the digital realm represents a progressive step. By embracing this, we not only preserve our stories but also ensure their accessibility to a larger audience.”
She said the changing dynamics of information consumption enables the paper to thrive and flourish in the digital world while keeping its essence and integrity.
Indianapolis Recorder’s top stories in 2023:
- Jordan’s Fish & Chicken closed after video shows food on floor, a rodent and barefoot employees
- Buying Back the Block’: Indianapolis Native Mike Epps rebuilding his childhood community
- Response: Ku Klux Klan recruitment flyers posted in Carmel
- 15-year-old KIPP Indy student shot and killed in school parking lot
- Muslims believe in the Virgin Mary, the Holy Spirit and Jesus
- Spiritual Outlook: The sign of the blood
- Taylor isn’t healthy and his employer has known it all along
- Indianapolis to host first annual festival celebrating Caribbean culture
“At a time of unprecedented digital expansion, the Indianapolis Recorder with its enduring legacy is proudly fueled by an ever-growing readership. I feel like the sky is the limit for the Recorder. We can use digital media to share more about what’s going on in our community and to learn more about communities all over the world,” said Jones reflecting on the top stories.
“We can also reach each new generation, be a part of telling their stories and bring them into the Recorder’s rich legacy.”
Shegog said he would like the team to be even more innovative in their approach to digital media.
“What we know for certain is that technology isn’t going to end; it’s only going to advance. Therefore, we must be prepared to evolve continuously. Being innovative, out-of-the-box thinkers will help us stay ahead digitally,” said Shegog.
With the surge in engagement over the last decade, drawing in an increasingly diverse audience establishes deeper connections within the community.
The Recorder continues to evolve with a commitment to storytelling that resonates with the city and beyond.
Contact staff writer Jade Jackson at (317) 762-7853 or by email JadeJ@IndyRecorder.com. Follow her on Twitter @IAMJADEJACKSON.
