Journalistic ethics, or lack of it

I am writing to express my concern for the lack of journalism ethics that the Marianas Variety displays in its obvious “anti-BB” stance. Ruth Tighe hit the nail on the head in her column on Sunday, Oct. 1, 2005 in the Saipan Tribune and I quote:

“Lastly, isn’t the Variety going a little overboard in its practice of freedom of expression? Taking an anti-BB stance in its editorials is one thing. Promoting that stance throughout the paper is quite another-and quite possibly a violation of journalism ethics…”

I wouldn’t say a little overboard, but rather that its practices are greatly lacking in journalistic ethics. In fact this has long since been erased from Marianas Variety’s vocabulary. Editorials that decry allegations of the current administration’s faults have come to be expected, but promoting such as stance in your articles throughout the paper is an outright violation of journalistic ethics. This is an opinion that I am certain many feel and have come to expect from your paper. It is the media’s utmost responsibility to show all sides of any issue. I am grossly disgusted with the very apparent lack of professionalism that is being exemplified. While I write this letter, I am also doubtful that is will be published, as it is too close to the truth. Ruth Tighe is a strong critic on all fronts about practically every issue. She herself recognizes your lack of respect for the very profession she exercises.

I have faith in your reporter’s ability to do justice to their jobs, by formulating in-depth stories with both sides represented. However, I challenge the editors and those in charge of what gets printed to prove their ethics. Effect proper journalistic ethics and print both sides of the story. You also may want to take a look at what good has really been done. You will be surprised to know that you have missed a lot! But the truth remains, many will do things with ulterior motives and your paper apparently has one purpose in mind—to defame and challenge the integrity of an administration that you at one point had a vested interest in supporting.

Thank you for your attention. I can only hope that the public will be given the chance to consider what I have to say.

Diego C. Blanco
Dandan Village