July 5, 2023

Covering Independence Day mass shootings

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The Fourth of July accounted for the most mass shootings of any other day of the year in nearly a decade, a CNN analysis finds. This weekend, several mass shootings took place across the country in Washington, D.C., Indianapolis, Baltimore, Fort Worth, Texas, and Philadelphia.

When covering mass shootings it is important that journalists follow the SPJ Code of Ethics. Journalists should seek the truth and report it. As information is released from these tragic events, remember to take responsibility for the accuracy of your work and verify information before publishing it. Neither speed nor format excuses inaccuracy. Journalists must also minimize harm and consider what publishing the information or images would do for the public, victims and their families. Recognize that legal access to information differs from an ethical justification to publish or broadcast. Use the Code as a guide to explain ethical choices and encourage a civil dialogue about journalistic practices and coverage.