Values statement from Ron Buel's group
EHarris
Here is the values statement from the other group. We talked about it
Wednesday - as possibly including some of the language/approach we
were lacking. Bill may incorporate some in his re-draft, but please
also take a look at this also ahead of the Feb 3rd meeting at
Backspace!
Thank you !!
Emily
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Mission
WMTM will produce journalism that inspires action in the public
interest -- by bringing clarity to problems that are poorly
understood, exposing root causes, and pointing to solutions. We will
present the facts necessary for meaningful civic engagement. Our
reporting will challenge popular assumptions, shine light on powerful
institutions, and draw attention to the plights of individuals without
a voice. We will be an independent, trusted source of news and
analysis within our community.
Values
Innovation. We maximize the unique capabilities of the Web as a medium
for interactive storytelling and a forum for conversation. We will
preserve the best practices of print and broadcast while harnessing
the power of multi-media displays, social networking, online databases
and other channels of communication.
Professionalism. We employ professionals trained in the difficult
craft of identifying facts and relating them faithfully to others. Our
staff must adhere to the highest standards of conduct, including
refusal to take gifts and abstention from public expression of
political beliefs.
Inclusion. We seek the broadest possible audience for our stories. We
actively seek voices from parts of the community that have
historically been ignored. We embrace the insights of citizen
journalists outside our organization, creating a forum to highlight
their work and connect it with our own.
Critical thinking. Critical thinking is our bias. We approach every
story with both skepticism and an open mind, knowing that as many
failures of public policy stem from confusion and ignorance as
incompetence or corruption. Some problems are concealed, others are
willfully ignored, but many are simply complicated by ideology and
conventional wisdom passing for facts.
Respect. We assume that our audience is intelligent, demanding high
quality information that demystifies complex and controversial
subjects, ignites their creative impulses and makes them feel more
connected to their community.
Enterprise. We seek out stories that would not otherwise be told and
search for facts that surprise, enlighten and upset.
Independence. We follow facts where they lead. The organization’s
editorial staff decides what to publish, free of control by the board
of directors, business or marketing executives, or any financial
contributor.
Fairness. We question our own assumptions and deeply held beliefs as
we frame problems and explore solutions. We will seek the fullest
account possible from each player and present all perspectives in an
honest light.