Out in Jersey: Two Decades of LGBTQ+ Grassroots Journalism | Maria Sammartino & Peter Frycki

Maria Sammartino, Editor-in-Chief, and Peter Frycki, Publisher of Out in Jersey Magazine, join us to delve into the magazine's origins, growth, and profound impact on the Jersey LGBTQ community since its establishment in 2002. Driven by the absence of everyday coverage of New Jersey LGBTQ+ news and events, founders Peter Frycki and Toby Grace saw an opportunity to make a difference. Instead of focusing solely on gruesome events like murders, they envisioned a publication that would highlight the vibrant LGBTQ+ community and its stories. Throughout our conversation, Peter and Maria illuminate the magazine's crucial role as a platform for advocacy, education, and the amplification of diverse voices. They also candidly discuss the operational hurdles they've faced, the paramount importance of inclusivity and balance in content, and the enduring influence of grassroots journalism. Despite industry declines, Out in Jersey remains one of the few surviving print publications, continuing to support and inform the LGBTQ+ community across New Jersey. Out In Jersey is a news and event website and bi-monthly LGBTQ print magazine. OutInJersey.net is updated with the latest news, events, features, and commentary, plus theatre, restaurant, music, books, and movie reviews each day. The magazine is a full-color glossy and distributed at over 310 locations. Guest Links: Website: https://outinjersey.net/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/out-in-jersey-inc Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/outinjerseymag/