Our new novelty trading cards lampooning MBTA waste and mismanagement
The Boston Institute for Nonprofit Journalism (BINJ) has produced multiple investigative features on the MBTA, in the process identifying tens of millions of dollars in questionable spending and imprudent financial decisions. Examples range from costly marketing campaigns that attempt to whitewash clear and pressing transit concerns, to coverage of the agency’s insanely complicated public-private partnerships which seem to benefit the latter far more than the rider.
BINJ continues to produce in-depth articles. At the same time, its editors also recognize the limited reach of longform and digital media, and are introducing Garbage Rail Kids as a way to connect with new readers and T riders in real life.
Put simply, Garbage Rail Kids are novelty/satirical collectible trading cards highlighting reporting done by BINJ—as well as other media and transit advocacy groups—on the MBTA and its infinite problems. Since many of the causes of so much ongoing consternation are forgotten if they’re ever adequately amplified in the first place, this project is intended to educate stakeholders and keep relevant reporting within reach of the public in a time of paywalls and diminishing enterprise journalism—all while having some laughs at the T’s expense.
Prototype packs of Garbage Rail Kids were passed out at train stations in Boston, Cambridge, Quincy, and Somerville all fall. This winter, BINJ will distribute thousands of free sample packs, and also offer a limited number of exclusive packs and full sets to donors online (see below). The proceeds from those sales will go to creating and printing additional cards and doing further reporting on public transit.
Announcements about upcoming free drops, ways to get them online and in person, and Garbage Rail Kids events are forthcoming.
