Honesty

Never plagiarize. Always attribute. Label advocacy and opinion.

Diversity

Seek sources whose voices we seldom hear. Avoid stereotyping. Challenge personal values and experiences while reporting.

Fairness

Diligently give subjects of news coverage the opportunity to respond to criticism. Avoid surreptitious methods of gathering information. Hold people in power accountable. Give voice to the voiceless.

Accountability

Respond quickly to questions of accuracy, clarity and fairness. Acknowledge and correct mistakes promptly and prominently.

Respect

Use heightened sensitivity when dealing with people who are inexperienced or who are unable to give consent. Realize that private people have a greater right to control information about themselves than people who seek power, influence or attention. Consider long-term implications of publication. Provide updated and more information as appropriate.

Accuracy

Verify that all facts are accurate. Focus on accuracy, rather than speed of publication. Use original sources whenever possible. Present information in the proper context. Identify sources clearly.

Independence

Avoid conflicts of interest, real or perceived. Disclose unavoidable conflicts. Refuse gifts, favors, fees, free travel or any special treatment that may compromise integrity or impartiality. Deny favored treatment to donors or special interests.

Public Access

Ensure that government bodies conduct the public’s business in the open. Ensure public records are made public. Provide access to source materials when it is relevant and appropriate.

Anonymous Sources

Consider sources’ motivations before promising anonymity. Reserve anonymity only for sources who may face danger, retribution or other harm and who have information that cannot be obtained elsewhere. Explain to the audience why anonymity was granted.