Purpose: At CherryRoad Media, we are committed to providing ethical, quality journalism to local communities. As such, we make a good faith effort to provide accurate, fair, and unbiased information to the public. We strive to operate with accountability and transparency to maintain our commitment to integrity across all CherryRoad owned and managed entities.

This Code of Ethics outlines the principles that guide our actions and decisions so we can maintain this commitment and serve the public interest. It applies to all CherryRoad Media employees, contractors, and contributors.

Principles:

We operate with the intention to uphold these principles but acknowledge that sometimes we may fall short. In instances where we do not live up to the values outlined in this Code of Ethics, we commit to transparently and robustly remedying any issues in the spirit of continuous improvement.

• Accuracy and Truthfulness
• Fairness 
• Independence
• Respect for Privacy and Dignity
• Transparency
• Accountability
• Commitment to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

1. Accuracy and Truthfulness

• Strive for accuracy in all reporting and verify facts before publication.
• Clearly distinguish between news, opinion, and advertising.
• Correct errors promptly and transparently, publishing corrections or clarifications when necessary.
• Hold factual information in opinion columns and editorials to the same standards of accuracy as news stories.
• Seek to gain sufficient understanding of the communities, individuals and stories we cover to provide an informed account of activities.

2. Fairness and Impartiality

• Provide balanced coverage, presenting all relevant sides of a story without bias and acknowledge and correct when we fall short.
• Avoid conflicts of interest that could compromise credibility.
• Refrain from sensationalism or exaggeration in headlines and reporting.
• Explain our journalistic processes to readers and ensure we are fair in our treatment of anyone unaccustomed to interacting with the press.

3. Independence

• Maintain editorial independence from political, business, or other external influences.
• Disclose any relationships, affiliations, or sponsorships that could be perceived as influencing editorial content.
• Ensure that advertising does not compromise journalistic independence.

4. Respect for Privacy and Dignity

• Respect the privacy of individuals, particularly in cases of tragedy or other sensitive coverage.
• Exercise caution when reporting on issues that could harm vulnerable individuals or groups.
• Avoid graphic content unless it is essential to the story and serves the public interest.
• Avoid unnecessary intrusion into citizens’ private lives unless it serves the public interest.
• Treat all sources, subjects, and colleagues with professionalism.

5. Transparency 

• Ensure that quotes and statements are presented in their proper context.
• Clearly distinguish between editorial content and paid advertisements.
• Reject advertising that promotes harmful, deceptive, or unethical practices.
• Identify sources clearly whenever possible, unless the source’s safety or confidentiality is at risk.
• Protect confidential sources to uphold the integrity of investigative journalism.

6. Accountability

• Accept responsibility for the accuracy and integrity of published work.
• Welcome feedback and engage with readers to address concerns or criticisms.
• Provide accessible avenues for the public to report inaccuracies or unethical practices.
• Engage in ongoing training and education to stay informed about ethical journalism practices and emerging challenges.
• Foster a culture of open dialogue and ethical reflection within the organization.

7. Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

• Reflect the diversity of the community and society in reporting and hiring practices.
• Avoid stereotypes and ensure fair representation of all groups in coverage.