Meet Natania Watie: Hometown Reporter
The city of Wichita, Kansas is a community that prides itself on praise and recognition for those who leave town and make a name for themselves. However, many community pillars serve as a reminder that it is important to recognize those who stayed within the city as well.
Natania Watie, a graduate of Wichita State University, is a contributing writer for The Community Voice Kansas newspaper. In addition to her work as a journalist, Watie also works as a publisher. Watie first began to work for The Community Voice as a freelancer and became more involved as the years went on. When reading her work it is clear that Watie is a strong advocate for her community and takes issues that affect her city seriously. The bulk of her writing touches on current event topics which can include city government and community progress. As you read her work it becomes apparent that her values directly align with those of The Community Voice Kansas.
The Community Voice Kansas is a black-serving newspaper, now in its 25th year of print. Although Wichita is a considerably diverse city, equity remains a missing key component in the city’s legislative system. Decades-old remnants of redlining, gentrification, environmental racism and classism have only reinforced the black community of Wichita’s passion for independence.
The dynamic of Wichita is a unique one. Many describe the city as big in population with a small-town feel. This community trait is one of the things that makes the work of Community Voice Kansas so important. When reporting on your neighbors, things may become difficult from time to time. In comparison, positive connections made within the community can extend into the world of journalism.
Watie’s passion for justice shows through her work. In her article titled “Black Men Gathered in Solidarity, Their Moment Captured Through Artistic Expression” Watie covers a community march led by local photographer Eddie Legacy. The event focused on the community image of the black boy and black man. The article is eloquently written and consists of photos and quotes of march attendees. The organizer, Eddie Legacy can articulate the true meaning of the march and emphasizes “We’re here for salvation and peace.” When reflecting on her work Watie notes that for a story to pique her interest there must be a good and positive message behind it. Legacy’s march checked all the boxes. Written in an unbiased light the article shows the artistic and humane side to a community and neighborhood that is often left underrecognized.
Happening simultaneously during the summer protests was the growing threat of COVID-19. The virus disproportionately affects black citizens nationwide, and the city of Wichita was desperate for answers. This pushes Watie to write “Churches Find Ways to Adapt During Virus Frenzy”. For this article, Watie sits down with leaders of the community churches who were given no choice but to adjust when gathering limits were put in place by the city government. Following stories such as this one can become difficult, especially when working with a subgroup as closely knit as the African-American church. Despite this Watie can successfully cover the opinions and COVID-19 plans of multiple pastors such as Pastor Robert Johnson and Pastor Roosevelt DeShazer
When recalling her journey to where she is now, Watie emphasizes the confidence she had staying home as a journalist. Working for a black newspaper allowed her to feel free to express herself.
Acting as a reporter in her hometown often allows Watie to cover people she knows personally. This makes it inherently more difficult to remain unbiased, she admits. Watie explains “Since I was born and raised here, many articles have included people that I am acquainted with, but when I determine my line of questioning is where the bias escapes me because I can differentiate and cut questions as needed to avoid bias.” This line of questioning technique was utilized in her story covering local community leader, Joseph Shepard.
Joseph Shepard is a well-known public servant in the Wichita community. At only 27, Shepard has a strong connection with both the youth and elders of the city. In her article “Sedgwick County Democrats Have a Bold New Leadership Team” Watie does an excellent job of presenting Shepard to the public. Watie successfully covers the story in an unbiased and nonpartisan light. In addition to this, the jargon and explanations within her work make the subject matter accessible to those who may not be familiar with politics. In addition to announcing his newly obtained role, Watie explains the duties Shepard has as chairman and how his new responsibilities connect with his previous work as a student and activist.
Young activists such as Joseph Shepard are very common throughout Wichita and became even more visible after the murder of George Floyd in 2020. In her article “Are You Planning to Join a Protest? Know Your Rights Beforehand” Watie covers the increase in local protests and encourages young people to know their rights prior to hitting the streets. She does the same in her second article “Protestors and Legal Observers: Know Your Rights” Watie does a great job of noting protest rights while maintaining her professional stance and remaining nonpartisan. In the second article, Watie makes the important distinction between a protestor and legal observer. This article likely benefits an abundance of Wichita youth, and answers many questions that were prominent during the height of local protests.
Amidst protests and the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important to remain appreciative of those who serve our communities as well. In her piece “Frontline Hero” Watie covers a local Save-A-Lot store manager who has been working throughout the duration of the pandemic. Watie recalls how sweet the woman was and how at peace she seemed to be with her current situation. The Community Voice emphasizes that essential workers are selfless and a8t risk citizens who should be protected throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
As a community reporter Watie also finds herself covering the tougher subjects such as gang violence. In her article “Wichita’s Recent Gang Violence Prompts Community Street Team” Watie addresses both the problems and solutions to the rise in violence. Titling her subsection “Pipeline for Change” allows the reader to first read the statistics-based side of the article and then transition into the community solution on how they plan to take action. The article stresses the importance of lining young boys and girls up with opportunities to steer them from the gang life, thus saving lives and communities.
In addition to her passion for community outreach and coverage, Watie frequently covers the arts as well. In her article “K.C. Local Filmmaker Gets Recognition from Will Smith” Watie makes it apparent to readers that your hometown does not dictate your success. The article is organized, and well written with hyperlinks included to the videos discussed throughout the article. This optimizes access for readers who may not be as technologically savvy as others.
The diverse range of work by Natania Watie shows her passion for not only her writing but her community and people. The articles were well-written, easy to follow and diverse in topic. As a hometown journalist Watie is doing her due diligence and accurately and beautifully depicting the city she is proud to call home.
