Covering Race in the News: Not A Black and White Issue

Kevin Zukerman
kz277505@ohio.edu

Race issues are not easy to talk about in an open discussion, much less report about for a media outlet. A main issue in the debate is this: How can one objectively cover issues of race?

There are basically two schools of thought on the subject.

1. Race issues should be covered by specialized journalists because they are complex issues that require first-hand knowledge and experience with the subject. OR
   
2. Race issues can be covered by anyone, because it's something that reporters should always be aware of; something that should be incorporated in all reporting.

Personally, I think there should be no formula set in stone about how race issues should be covered.

Market demographics play a big role in how media outlets cover race-related issues. In Atlanta, for example, it makes perfect sense to have a reporter's beat concerned entirely on the issue. It comes up so often that it's probably difficult NOT to have at least ONE reporter who focuses solely on race-related issues.

But, would you cover it the same in Salt Lake City? Probably not.

I think a reporter should be self-aware of potential issues involving race and be proactive to try to avoid them.

• Check yourself before publishing a story. Is there another side to this story that you're missing because you didn't get input from people of other races? If so, get it!

• Ask your interviewees how they want to be identified. They're the only ones who can tell you how they see themselves.

• Don't be uncomfortable with the topic of race. In fact, think about it with every story and make yourself learn as much as you can about the topic. Embrace the fact that it will consistently be a part of stories, probably more often than not. That way, you'll be prepared to cover any story with accuracy and total objectivity.

Race should not require a beat-reporter, but for right now it does. Until every reporter starts to consider race in each story they do, it will continue to require a reporter with special attention to cover race.