Choices Media is committed to maintaining the highest standards of journalistic integrity, transparency, and accountability. Our newsroom operates under a clearly defined code of ethics that informs every stage of our reporting process. This policy exists to protect the credibility of our work, the trust of our readers, and the integrity of the communities we serve.
Sourcing and Attribution
We believe that credibility begins with transparent sourcing.
- Primary Sources Preferred: Whenever possible, we rely on firsthand documentation, public records, interviews, official statements, and direct observations.
- Anonymous Sources: We avoid anonymous sources unless the information is critical to the public interest and the source faces a legitimate risk. In such cases, we independently verify all claims and explain our reasoning to readers.
- Attribution: All statistics, quotes, and third-party claims are clearly attributed. We do not plagiarize or use content without citation.
Accuracy and Fact-Checking
Our newsroom has a zero-tolerance policy for misinformation.
- Verification: Every fact, figure, and statement published by Choices Media is verified through multiple sources wherever possible.
- Corrections: If we make an error, we correct it promptly and transparently. A corrections page is maintained, and corrected articles include a timestamp and note.
- Editorial Review: All investigative and sensitive stories undergo a multi-stage editorial review process to ensure accuracy, clarity, and legal compliance.
Editorial Independence
We maintain a strict divide between journalism and outside influence.
- No Outside Control: We do not accept direction or review from donors, advertisers, or political figures on what we report or how we report it.
- No Sponsored Content in News: All sponsored or promotional content is clearly labeled. We do not disguise advertising as journalism.
- No Endorsements: Choices Media does not endorse candidates or ballot initiatives. Our role is to inform, not influence.
Conflicts of Interest
All staff and contributors must disclose any real or perceived conflicts of interest.
- No Reporting on Personal Affiliations: Reporters may not cover organizations, businesses, or individuals with whom they have a personal or financial relationship.
- Disclosure Required: If unavoidable, any conflict must be disclosed in the article.
- Freelancer Ethics: Freelance contributors must adhere to the same standards and submit conflict disclosures as part of their assignment process.
Transparency with Our Readers
We believe in earning and keeping your trust.
- Open Communication: Readers can reach our newsroom with questions, tips, or complaints at any time. Our contact information is clearly listed on our site.
- Funding Transparency: If funding or support is received for specific reporting projects, it will be disclosed in the article.
- Behind-the-Scenes Clarity: When stories involve difficult editorial decisions—such as withholding names for safety—we explain our choices clearly to the reader.
Diversity of Voices
We strive to reflect the communities we serve.
- Community Focus: Our reporting elevates voices often left out of traditional media—residents, workers, whistleblowers, and local advocates.
- Balanced Coverage: We seek out a range of perspectives, especially in contentious issues, and present them fairly and factually.
Public Accountability
We believe journalism is a public service.
- Community Response: We welcome letters to the editor, corrections, counterpoints, and feedback. Constructive criticism makes us stronger.
- Whistleblower Support: We provide secure ways to submit tips and documents. Whistleblowers can remain anonymous when necessary and legally protected.
- Living Policy: This ethics code is reviewed regularly. As media practices evolve, so will our commitment to clarity, responsibility, and ethical journalism.
Choices Media stands by one principle above all: The truth belongs to the public.
If you believe we’ve fallen short of our own standards, we want to hear from you: ethics@choices.media