Efficiently Reporting on Racism

Spenser Brown
sb655514@ohio.edu

In covering race a journalist must be precise, clear and descriptive (Mark Peterson/NBC News).

Covering racism is a difficult task. In the current political climate, journalists are closely watched for any mistake they make. Even the smallest error can be harshly criticized, destroying credibility and trust for themselves, their publication, or their company.

One of the most important aspects when covering race is the use of language. Word choice must be sharp when clarifying who is involved, what they did, and with whom they are affiliated. Generalization of a group can lead to false information being published. Rather than calling a group 'counter-protesters', specifying their cause (i.e. Black Lives Matter, Democrat, Progressive) helps the reader know the true story.

Writers should avoid the individualizing of racism, and particularly comparing two acts of racism. According to the Race Reporting Guide by Race Forward, drawing a parallel between racial biases "Provides an excuse for, or otherwise seeks to absolve, an individual who has expressed a racist idea or committed a racist act." Readers will become conflicted if two incidents are reported comparably, but can develop their own feelings if they can examine each story in a case-by-case form.

When using images and videos, it is crucial that reporters provide context. Without information that tells the whole story, a reader is not completely educated on the situation. Videos of racial outbursts should also show the reaction from the other side. The use of narration and captions to clarify videos and pictures is integral when posting to social media platforms.

The reporter, in all instances, must continue to stay bias free. Journalism requires a person to be fair, just and honest when covering all stories; regardless of race, age or affiliation.

Julia Martinelli, reporter for Nashville Public Radio, was treated horribly by white nationalists as she covered their rally. Martinelli is originally from Argentina, and this rally was directed at people who had come to the United States as she did. Despite intimidation and some instances of physicality, Martinelli remained calm and thoroughly reported the rally. It is crucial that reporters can maintain their composure while reporting, staying objective even if they are under attack.

There is an ongoing challenge of how to efficiently report the words, images and sounds of racial violence. The groups producing this hatred and bigotry are seeking to get their names into the headlines. By reporting the story in its entirety, not just the main headline, these groups will not be glorified; they will be exposed. In the same instance, reporters must not let their personal ideals and opinions take over their writing.

An outburst in the press can reflect as badly on a journalist as it does a white nationalist who is making racially charged comments. The First Amendment is still standing true, and people have the right to protest and speak their minds. Even though this can result in horrible events like Charlottesville, journalists can make their impact by reporting the story fairly. Moving forward, journalism must remain ethical, just and fair to all parties involved, regardless of the circumstances being covered.