A reporter from the Connecticut Mirror is taking a new approach to telling stories in an underserved community often wary of the media. Reginald David, the CT Mirror’s Community Engagement Reporter, focuses on Bridgeport and its community. He believes that community engagement means journalism that’s built with the community, not just reporting on it.

Building Trust

David’s approach is to go into communities and neighborhoods, not as a reporter, but as a neighbor. He builds trust by showing up consistently and having conversations with community members. He says that being a community engagement reporter allows him to go deeper and be a trusted face and voice for community residents.

David has covered various stories, including the history of Little Liberia, a free black community that settled in Bridgeport, and public housing issues in the city. He has also highlighted cultural events, such as Bridgeport’s first Haitian Flag Day, and has built relationships with community leaders, including the police chief.

Objectivity and Trust

David believes that building trust is key to his reporting. He doesn’t always bring out his pen and pad when meeting someone for the first time. Instead, he tries to break down barriers and build relationships. He says that being able to build trust and show up consistently has been crucial in his reporting.

Original reporting: The Connecticut Mirror — read the source article.