Ethics in Media

This ethics policy outlines the principles, standards, and practices that guide our community radio station. As a public service organization, we are committed to upholding the highest ethical standards in our broadcasting, journalism, and community engagement. This policy serves as a framework for decision-making and conduct for all station personnel, including staff, volunteers, contributors, and board members.

1. Core Principles

Accuracy
– We verify all information before broadcasting.
– We promptly correct errors and acknowledge mistakes on-air.
– We distinguish between fact and opinion in our reporting and programming.
– We maintain detailed records of sources and research materials.

Fairness
– We present diverse perspectives on controversial issues.
– We allocate appropriate time to different viewpoints.
– We avoid selective presentation of facts that may create bias.
– We provide reasonable opportunity for response to criticism or allegations.

Objectivity
– We separate personal beliefs from our reporting and programming.
– We avoid language that reveals bias or prejudice.
– We base our reporting on verifiable facts rather than assumptions.
– We consider all relevant facts and context in our coverage.

Independence
– We maintain editorial independence from funders, advertisers, and special interests.
– We disclose any funding relationships that might influence content.
– We resist pressure from external entities seeking to influence our coverage.
– We make editorial decisions based on journalistic merit and community interest.

2. Specific Issues

Conflicts of Interest
– Staff and volunteers must disclose any personal, professional, or financial relationships that might influence their work.
– Personnel must not accept gifts, favors, or compensation from individuals or organizations they report on.
– Staff and volunteers must recuse themselves from coverage involving organizations where they have a direct interest.
– Political affiliations that could influence impartiality must be disclosed to management.

Privacy
– We respect the privacy rights of individuals, especially those not in the public eye.
– We obtain consent before recording private conversations or entering private property.
– We exercise special care when reporting on vulnerable groups, including minors, crime victims, and those experiencing trauma.
– We evaluate the public interest value before publishing private information.

Social Media
– Station personnel must clearly distinguish personal opinions from station positions on social media.
– Staff and volunteers should not share unverified information on social media platforms.
– Personnel should not engage in abusive or discriminatory behavior online.
– Social media conduct should reflect the station’s commitment to accuracy, fairness, and respect.

Transparency
– We disclose the sources of our information whenever possible.
– We explain our reporting and production processes to our audience.
– We acknowledge when information cannot be independently verified.
– We are open about our mistakes and how we address them.

Compassion
– We consider the potential impact of our reporting on those involved.
– We use sensitive language when covering traumatic events.
– We avoid sensationalizing tragedy or distress.
– We prioritize human dignity in all our reporting and programming.

3. Community Engagement and Representation

– We actively seek diverse voices and perspectives from our community.
– We provide platforms for underrepresented groups and viewpoints.
– We engage with community feedback and incorporate it into our operations.
– We allocate resources to cover issues affecting marginalized communities.

4. Programming and Content

– We clearly distinguish between news, opinion, commentary, and sponsored content.
– We ensure music and cultural programming represents diverse traditions and artists.
– We reject content that promotes discrimination, violence, or hatred.
– We follow applicable broadcasting regulations regarding explicit content and watershed hours.

5. Accountability and Disciplinary Action

Enforcement Process
1. Ethical concerns should be reported to the station manager or ethics committee.
2. All reported concerns will be documented and investigated promptly.
3. Investigations will include all relevant parties and maintain confidentiality when appropriate.
4. Findings and recommendations will be communicated to those involved.

Disciplinary Measures
– Minor violations may result in counseling or additional training.
– Repeated violations may lead to suspension from specific duties.
– Serious breaches may result in termination of employment or volunteer status.
– Criminal violations will be reported to appropriate authorities.

Appeals Process
– Personnel have the right to appeal disciplinary decisions.
– Appeals must be submitted in writing within 14 days of a decision.
– An independent committee will review appeals and issue final determinations.

6. Implementation and Training

– All station personnel must review and acknowledge this ethics policy annually.
– Regular ethics training will be provided to staff and volunteers.
– Ethics discussions will be incorporated into regular station meetings.
– This policy will be reviewed and updated annually to address emerging issues.

Conclusion

This ethics policy represents our commitment to serving our community with integrity and responsibility. By adhering to these principles and standards, we fulfill our mission as a trusted source of information, entertainment, and community connection.

Adopted: [1.1.2025]
Last Revised: [12,.20.2022]