In 2020, we set a goal of better reflecting Topeka's demographics. Here's where we are in 2022.

Two years ago, I shared with you our goal of expanding our coverage of communities of color.

I believe an important starting point for that effort is ensuring our newsroom reflects the diverse demographics of Topeka.

How can we ensure we're reflecting all perspectives in our community if so many of us have similar or shared life experiences? Diversity ensures all voices are brought to the table.

We must be part of our community as neighbors, friends and active participants, so we can experience all the things that make Topeka great and better understand the areas where our community can improve.

I'm happy to report that our team has made strides in better reflecting our community's demographics.

Updating The Capital-Journal's demographics

This information, a snapshot as of July 1, 2022, includes the gender, racial and ethnic makeup of our news workforce and our coverage area, as well as for managers in our newsroom.

Our newsroom is 63.6% white, compared to the city's 78.2% white population in the 2020 Census. Our newsroom is 9.1% Black, compared to Topeka's 5.2%; 9.1% Asian-American, compared to 2.3%; and 18.2% Hispanic or Latino, compared to 8.3%.

Women make up 36.4% of our newsroom. That's down about 5% from last year. Our newsroom leadership is 100% women.

More:A diverse newsroom is essential for us to tell Topeka stories. Here is our team.

More:Gannett newsrooms making steady progress in overall diversity

Where The Capital-Journal will go looking forward

We're proud of the stories we produce, but we know we can improve. We can reach out to those whose stories aren't being told and bring in perspectives that have been missing.

If you have ideas for stories — or want to give feedback — please reach out to me at tquinn@cjonline.com or 785-295-1212. Or reach out to other members of our team.

We want to hear your ideas and make sure your voices and perspectives are reflected in our coverage.

Tomari Quinn can be reached at tquinn@cjonline.com or 785-295-1212.