An Ode to My Code....of Ethics

A journalist's writing/reporting is only as good as his or her credibility to provide people with correct information. If a journalist, in the traditional sense (i.e. an AP reporter), doesn't fact check and is found to be unreliable, they lose both their audience and their credibility.



Here is my Code of Ethics that I will live by as a reporter:



Fairness and Objectivity:

• There are two sides to every story. When reporting on a two sided event (i.e. Gaza-Israeli conflict) make sure to take both sides into account and allow both sides to comment on the issue if they wish to do so.


• When obtaining information from another source, make sure to give that source's name and full credit for the quote/info.
• Full Disclosure on all items/connections you may have received from group or person that is the subject of a story.
• Full Disclosure on any possible affiliation with a group (even if that group is a charitable organization.
• Do not take handouts from groups that you are reporting on/could report on in the future. If your story costs money, ask for reimbursement from your station/company.

Minimizing Harm:

• When dealing with sensitive cases (legal trials, cases of abuse, etc.) make sure to ask the subject/source if he or she would like to be identified in the story or remain anonymous
• Be considerate of other's feelings about an issue. If a subject firmly believes or feels a certain way about not disclosing something, know your boundaries
• Make sure not to get emotionally involved in the story. If the story is something you feel strongly about, get your point across but don't become over-bearing.

Misc:

• Be Independent. If there is a story within your own organization, be sure you report and give full disclosure.
• Always double check your facts.
• Remember that "your word is your bond." Be honest with your audience and report the facts in the clearest way possible.