Law, Ethics, and News Literacy
Journalism sits at the crossroads of law, ethics, and public trust. I see journalism as both an industry and a public service that is rooted in truth and moral accountability. The responsibility of journalists is to inform rather than inflame the public, to encourage freedom of speech, protection of press, and access to shared knowledge.
Freedom of speech is essential, but it is not the same as freedom from responsibility. Ethical journalism requires context, holistic understanding, and acknowledgement of all perspectives. Who benefits from each narrative? Who is harmed by it? What perspectives are missing? These are all vitally important questions for all members in media to ask themselves before publishing a story. In modern times, when news can be shared and spread like wildfires, it is more important than ever to ensure truth in every story. News literacy is no longer optional, but rather a civic skill.
Although the scope of media has changed, its influence has not diminished. If anything, the impact of media is more personal than ever! Nowadays, everyone has quick access to media- whether that's watching a news station from their living room TV, or watching an informative TikTok on their iPhone. As journalists, its important to remember this and be both efficient and accurate when reporting.
Laws are debated before they are finalized. Court decisions ripple across social media platforms in real time. Political rhetoric and propaganda shapes daily lives, especially those of people in my generation.
You can never truly put into words what it's like to see your community in shambles as basic rights are being striped away, but the least I can do is try.
This. This is why I write about current events and law. Although these stories are not light-hearted or typically "uplifting," they are the ones that need to be shared. Stories regarding elections, protests, or disasters shape my future, my rights, and my reality. Journalism is not just about documenting history, but about participating in it. I feel a moral responsibility to make my mark as to which side of history I stand on. How could I possibly sit back and watch?
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The Art of Noticing
A Poem by Quinn Wherley
“The art of joining a destructive protest”
“The art of believable lies”
And these may sound great,
But they’re not my perfect fate;
At least, not through my eyes
I don’t fancy uncovering
Violence of the world,
And I’m in no race to win.
But I’ve overcome many fears
In my eighteen years;
Through breathing deep and taking it in.
Heights don’t feel so tall
When you focus on clouds,
And the news doesn’t only show crime.
There are marathon winners
And preschool beginners,
If we look at life one step at a time.
But it's not always enough
To sit back and watch
And act as though we are all choiceless.
We must act on oppression,
Combat aggression
And, truly, give voice to the voiceless.
I can’t go back,
And I never will,
So I linger and I ponder-
In the half-written sentences
The alomst-sent messages
And who I'll become if I'm brave enough to wander.
So much goes unseen,
And so much erased,
And it weighs more than we mention
How the loudest distraction
Of a governmental faction
Steals the gift of paying attention
Education is vital
In times like these,
When propaganda often transpires.
So be inspective,
Be your own neuroprotective
Trust me, it'll spread like wildfires
If you’ve got writer's block,
I suggest taking a stroll,
For there’s plenty to get you inspired
The unheard stories on the street,
The people “future-you” will meet
Are simply waiting to be admired.
The sways of the grass,
The whistle of trees,
And the sweet scent of a lotus;
To you, I shriek
That you’ll continue to seek;
What an art it is to notice.
This article examines the far-reaching consequences of recent federal immigration enforcement in Maine and across the US. As ICE's "Operation Catch of the Day" unfolds in cities like Portland and Lewiston, communities have been shaken by raids. Protests, political debate, and deep concern among journalists are all heavy themes explored in this editorial. As my nation's federal government begs to argue that a five year-old is an "illegal alien," I, as a young journalist myself, beg all who are able to rise up and speak out against injustice. Read more above.
Right after the 2024 presidental election, there seemed to be a lot of speculation and confusion in my community surrounding how the outcome could potentially impact our small town. Which of Donald Trump's plans will soon take action? What could this look like for our district? And how will this impact local small businesses? This piece aims to clear the air in a polished and professional manner, to further educate my community and bring awareness to diversity. In all forms of journalism, it's important to look holistically at the bigger picture and how certain policies can affect many different groups of people. Journalism is important to spread awareness and truth; not to influence or spread propaganda.
This article offers a vivd, ground-level look at eh "NO Kings Day" protest in Kennebunk, illustrating how democratic expression thrives even in small communities. Despite poor weather conditions, residents of all ages gathered peacefully to voice concerns about authoritarian rhetoric, constitutional integrity, and global responsibility. This piece aims to highlight the power of public gathering and highlight powerful symbols, such as international flags and children attendings, to elevate the protest beyond partisan politics. By focusing on human stories rather than spectacle, this article emphasizes the importance of local activism and reflect on democracy.