New York’s Identity Crisis: Wealth, Inequality, and the Fight for Transparency

State grapples with stark contradictions amid declining local news.

New York State presents a complex picture, boasting a global-leading economy while simultaneously experiencing the highest wealth inequality in the nation. This dichotomy extends to its social fabric, marked by extreme diversity and deep segregation, alongside ambitious climate goals that are often unmet, and continued subsidies for polluting industries.

Scrutinizing Power in the Shadows

As the sole statewide nonprofit news organization in New York, our mission is to illuminate these contradictions. We delve into the mechanics of power, identifying key decision-makers and revealing how often-obscure policies impact the daily lives of New Yorkers. The landscape for this work has become increasingly challenging, with local news outlets in the state cut by nearly half over the past two decades.

This decline has created an environment where elected officials and influential figures can increasingly operate without public scrutiny, leaving the average citizen uninformed. We are dedicated to reversing this trend. Our reporting has already demonstrated the impact of vigilant observation, leading to policy shifts and legislative action. To continue this vital work and expand our investigative reach, we require public support.

“If you think this article succeeded, please consider supporting our mission and making more stories like this one possible.”

—Akash Mehta, Editor-in-Chief

Your contribution, whether a one-time gift or a recurring monthly donation, is crucial. Without your backing, this essential journalism cannot continue. We have ambitious plans for the coming year, including the introduction of new reporting areas and more in-depth investigations, all made possible by our community.

The erosion of local news means that opportunities for transparency are diminishing. For instance, a 2023 report by the Pew Research Center highlighted that the number of local news sources has continued to decline nationwide, leaving many communities underserved by investigative journalism. We are committed to filling these gaps in New York.