We empower community voices and rebuild trust in media through local messengers and inclusive journalism.

What we do

The LIFT Project is an engaged research effort focused on finding solutions to the challenges of news disengagement that contribute to the crises of disinformation and misinformation in our society.

Explore our work, community-driven approach, and strategies for building a more inclusive and trusted news ecosystem.

news

coloring book pages of Gordon Parks and Ethel Payne hang from table

Lifting Legacies Coloring Contest Winner

We are excited to announce the winner of our Ethel Payne/Gordon Parks coloring contest: Anna.

Elaine Cromie photographs Brant Wells, senior WKAR director, at Michigan State University's Communication Arts and Sciences building on Wednesday, October 23, 2024, in East Lansing, MI. Cromie guides students as they create portaits of individuals participating in early voting or connected to Michigan State University - By Megan Basile

Elaine Cromie: Environmental portraits, early voting, + MSU photojournalism students

We were honored to host Elaine Cromie , Detroit-based photo editor and photojournalist who directs visual journalism for Chalkbeat and...

LIFTxVoices: Darren Nichols

LIFTxVoices' inaugural workshop highlighted Detroit's trusted messenger and beloved columnist Darren Nichols (Detroit Free Press). The...

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Research

We study media patterns and community perspectives in Minnesota, Michigan, and the Midwest.

research

Programs

We turn data into compelling stories. Our efforts unite researchers, visual journalists, and community messengers through events and trainings.

programs

LIFTxVoices

We partner with Pop Up Docs™ to host public workshops where researchers, media makers, and youth transform data into visual stories that highlight trusted messengers and community concerns.

LIFTxVoices