The catchphrase “fake news” has become popular in the last couple of years, mainly in describing national media that does not necessarily fall in line with certain political beliefs, agenda or simply news some do not like or agree with.

That’s why newspapers from coast to coast have decided this week to speak up on a free and vigorous press, defending themselves against the constant verbal attacks.

According to the Associated Press, an estimated 350 newspapers have participated in the coordinated effort — including The Vicksburg Post — to let readers know we are not the enemy of the people some would lead you to believe.

The Des Moines Register in Iowa wrote: “The true enemies of the people — and democracy — are those who try to suffocate truth by vilifying and demonizing the messenger.”

We agree.

If you’ve looked at today’s edition of The Vicksburg Post, or any edition of The Post for that matter, you have read about events that affect you in some way on a day-to-day basis. That’s because your community newspaper focuses just on that — your community — and presents the news in an objective and fair manner.

We strive every day to bring you what is happening in Warren County and Vicksburg and how it matters to you. From improvements in education and economic development, to rising taxes and previews of tonight’s high school football games, you won’t get that information anywhere else.

The reporters here at The Post strive to bring our readers accurate and relevant stories of community interest that is neither biased nor opinionated. We’re your friends and neighbors and what impacts you impacts all of us.

Although such verbal “fake news” attacks have not affected The Post, the impact of newsprint tariffs imposed by the current administration has caused us to make changes, specifically the elimination of the Saturday and Monday editions due to the increase cost in newsprint.

So that’s why, even though The Post is not a direct target, we do understand that attacks on the national media are an attack on all freedoms of speech and the press.