With misinformation rampant and a growing number of avenues being used to spread it, the necessity of an independent free press is at an all-time high.
Amidst the challenges and changes brought about the past few years, we can look back to the editors of City on a Hill Press (CHP)’s past. For over 50 years, a common thread continues to weave our publication together: student voices need to be critical, balanced, and heard.
When CHP began publishing in 1966, Lyndon B. Johnson was halfway through his first full term, The Beatles’ “Revolver” was the nation’s number one album, and UC Santa Cruz was only in its second year of enrollment.
As CHP’s first editions made their way to the printing press, Americans across the country fought for their right to vote freely without difficulty or fear. UCSC’s incoming class of 1966 was unable to make their voices heard through the ballot box, as the voting age would remain at 21 until 1971. But just because they couldn’t do so didn’t mean that they sure as hell didn’t try. Students expressed their frustration by informing themselves of the inequities that were going on across campus, protesting in the streets, and uplifting their fellow students.
Even now, as CHP’s newest editions come your way via phone or laptop, these same issues continue to plague Americans as new methods of voter suppression seek to limit our power and voice.
CHP represents one-fifth of the First Amendment, and for over 50 years, our editors have made sure we could inspire students to exercise the rest of it.
We serve to provide a unifying voice on campus. The earliest editions of our paper commented on issues such as class size, housing, political events, and communication with the administration. Today, CHP proudly continues to report on similar issues directly impacting students in a factual, honest, and passionate manner.
CHP continues to represent student sentiment and activism. As a student-run publication, City on a Hill Press uniquely understands the range of issues, both global and local, that impact our readers. We’ll do our job in questioning the university and keeping you as informed as possible. We hope that it inspires you to go forth and make change in whatever way you see fit.
