As a journalist, you have a responsibility to represent the diversity of your sources, audiences, and communities. But how can you ensure that your reporting is inclusive, respectful, and accurate? Here are some tips to help you incorporate more diverse voices into your reporting.
One of the most important steps is to seek out sources who can provide different perspectives, experiences, and insights on your topic. Don't rely on the same experts, officials, or spokespeople who are often quoted in the media. Instead, look for people who are directly affected by the issue, who belong to marginalized or underrepresented groups, or who have alternative views or solutions. Use social media, community networks, and databases to find and contact potential sources.
Diverse voices aren't just a trend; they're the secret sauce to a story that pops. It's not just about reporting; it's about making sure your story resonates with everyone. 1. Step out of the comfort zone. Look for voices from marginalized or underrepresented groups. Fresh perspectives can transform your narrative. 2. Don't limit yourself to the usual official channels. Look for grassroots organizations, community leaders, and individuals with alternative views or solutions. Sometimes, the most powerful stories come from unexpected sources. 3. Use social media platforms and community networks to find individuals who can offer unique insights. Expand your search beyond traditional databases to ensure a wide array of perspectives.
Another key step is to listen and learn from your sources. Don't assume that you know their stories, opinions, or needs. Ask open-ended questions, listen actively, and avoid interrupting or leading them. Be curious, respectful, and empathetic. Acknowledge your own biases, limitations, and gaps in knowledge. Learn about the context, history, and culture of your sources and their communities. Don't tokenize, stereotype, or sensationalize them.
Listening and learning isn't just a courtesy; it's the cornerstone of responsible journalism. By giving your sources the space to share their stories authentically, you're not just reporting; you're amplifying voices that deserve to be heard. It's not just about the story; it's about how you tell it. Drop the notion that you know it all. Your sources are the real experts. Ask open-ended questions that let their stories unfold naturally. Avoid jumping in with assumptions or steering the conversation. Treat your sources with the respect they deserve. Avoid reducing them to tokens, stereotypes, or sensational narratives. Each story is unique, and your reporting should reflect that.
A third step is to verify and contextualize your information. Don't take your sources' words at face value. Check the facts, data, and evidence that they provide. Cross-check with other sources, documents, or experts. Look for multiple and diverse sources of information to balance and corroborate your reporting. Provide context and background for your readers or viewers. Explain why your sources are relevant, credible, and representative. Don't omit or distort important details or nuances.
Verifying and contextualizing isn't just for show; it's the backbone of reliable journalism. It's not just about the details; it's about the bigger picture. Don't be content with surface-level information. Dive deep into the facts, data, and evidence your sources provide. It's not about doubting; it's about ensuring accuracy. One perspective isn't enough. Cross-check with other sources, documents, or experts. Seek out a variety of voices to add layers of depth to your reporting. Last but not least. don't just drop information; provide context. Explain why your sources matter, why they are credible, and how they represent the broader narrative. It's about giving your audience the full picture.
A fourth step is to use inclusive language in your reporting. Use the terms and pronouns that your sources prefer and identify with. Avoid labels, slurs, or generalizations that may be offensive, inaccurate, or outdated. Be specific and descriptive when referring to people's identities, characteristics, or affiliations. Don't make assumptions or judgments based on appearance, accent, or name. Respect the diversity and complexity of human experiences and expressions.
A fifth step is to seek feedback and improvement on your reporting. Ask your sources, colleagues, editors, or mentors for their opinions and suggestions. Be open to criticism, corrections, or complaints. Learn from your mistakes and apologize if you make them. Keep track of your progress and challenges. Seek out opportunities to learn more about diversity, equity, and inclusion in journalism. Join networks, groups, or organizations that support and promote diverse voices in the media.
A sixth step is to challenge yourself and others to incorporate more diverse voices into your reporting. Don't settle for the status quo or the easy way out. Seek out stories, angles, and issues that are underreported, overlooked, or misrepresented. Challenge stereotypes, myths, or biases that may exist in your field, outlet, or industry. Advocate for more diversity, equity, and inclusion in your newsroom, editorial board, or management. Share your best practices, resources, and experiences with others.
Lots of time we rely on our own assumptions to interpret what a new source is telling us. This is a trap. In my edited volume with Venise Wagner, "Reporting Inequality: Tools and Methods for Reporting on Race and Ethnicity," we include a chapter from Omedi Ochieng about interviewing across difference. In it, he describes the disconnect that can occur across differing perspectives. First, he recommends, recognize your own embeddedness in structures of power and privilege. Second, pay special attention to unspoken forms of communication, including silence. And reconsider the very point of your interview. Instead of just gathering facts, use the opportunity to "enlarge your own imagination," he recommends.