Preview mode
Published
Copy responder link
Request edit access
The Chicago Reporter Freelance Journalist
Join Our Mission

The Chicago Reporter has been investigating race, poverty, and social inequality in Chicago since 1972. As the "conscience of Chicago," we continue our founder John A. McDermott's mission to "tell it like it is" through fearless, independent investigative journalism that speaks truth to power.

Our Impact: Our investigations have sparked policy changes, led to multi-billion dollar settlements, exposed systemic inequalities, and held powerful institutions accountable for over 50 years.

We're seeking dedicated freelance journalists who share our commitment to investigative excellence and social justice. Our freelancers contribute to our ongoing coverage of critical issues affecting Chicago's communities, particularly communities of color and those experiencing economic hardship.

What We're Looking For

Ideal candidates will have: Strong investigative research skills, experience with data analysis, deep understanding of social justice issues, and the ability to tell compelling stories that drive meaningful change. We value diverse perspectives and encourage applications from journalists who reflect the communities we serve.

Coverage areas include: Politics & Governance: Local Politics, National Politics, Legal Justice; Community & Social Issues: In The Neighborhood, Healthcare, Health Justice, Climate Justice; Family & Development: Child & Family Education; Infrastructure & Living:  Housing, Transportation.

name *
Email *
Phone number *
We primarily publish stories that focus on housing, taxes, neighborhood development, transportation, utilities, unemployment, etc. Which of these areas interest you? *
Required
When can you start freelance work with The Chicago Reporter *
MM
/
DD
/
YYYY
How often are you looking to take on freelance work from The Chicago Reporter *
Describe your connection to Chicago. *
Why The Chicago Reporter?
(What draws you to our mission? How do you see yourself contributing to our investigative work?)
 *
Share 1-2 story ideas aligned with our mission and that would fit the "Coverage Areas" described above. *
What impact could your project have or what issue could this story/project solve for? *
What makes this story crucial for the Chicagoland community where it is being told? *
Provide a broad outline of reporting costs for your work (ie. travel, FOIA requests, translations).  Also include any pending or committed funding sources and award amounts. *
How far along are you in the reporting and when do you expect the story/project will be ready for publishing? *
Website/Portfolio URL *
(Freelance) Submit 2 writing samples.  You can upload a document with links or the original documents. *
Add file
Required
(Freelance) Submit your cover letter and resume. *
Add file
Required
Professional References 
List 3 including: Name, title, organization, email and phone number 

 *
Submit
Clear form
Never submit passwords through Google Forms.
This content is neither created nor endorsed by Google. - Terms of Service - Privacy Policy

Does this form look suspicious? Report

Google Forms