Ethics and Diversity

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The Alligator recognizes the profound influence that journalism wields in shaping public opinion and fostering an inclusive society. As a publication dedicated to upholding the highest standards of journalism, we are unwavering in our commitment to ethics and diversity.

Ethics followed:

• Truth and Accuracy: To report the truth and verify information to the best of our ability as well as promptly correct any errors and avoid spreading misinformation

• Independence and Impartiality: To remain free from undue influence, and to seek to provide balanced coverage that reflects diverse perspectives

• Accountability: To hold accountable to our readers and the communities we serve

• Privacy and Sensitivity: To respect the privacy of individuals and exercise sensitivity when covering issues that involve personal trauma or sensitive subjects

• Conflict of Interest: To maintain transparency in disclosing any potential conflicts of interest among our staff and contributors, ensuring that such conflicts do not compromise the integrity of our reporting

Diversity followed:

• Inclusivity: To commit to representing the voices of all communities within our coverage area and strive to provide a platform for marginalized groups to share their stories and perspectives

• Fair Representation: Staff and contributors reflect the diversity of our society

• Story Selection: To ensure a broad range of topics and issues are covered, addressing issues of social justice, equity and inclusion

• Language and Imagery: To use language and imagery that respects and represents diverse communities and avoids stereotypes or harmful biases

• Community Engagement: To actively engage with our readers and communities to better understand their needs and concerns, fostering a stronger bond between our publication and the public

Donor Ethics Disclosure:

The Independent Florida Alligator is published by Campus Communications, Inc., a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that relies on philanthropic donations, advertising and grants from individuals and organizations to support its operations.

News judgments are made independently by the Alligator’s student-run newsroom and not on the basis of donor support. The Alligator newsroom retains full authority over editorial content and will cede no right to assign, review or influence coverage. Acceptance of financial support from donors, advertisers and other sources does not constitute implied or actual endorsement of their products, services or opinions.

Campus Communications will not accept donations from sources who, deemed by our board of directors, present a conflict of interest with our work or compromise our independence.

The Board of Directors does not shape news or editorial coverage. Each board member adheres to the organization’s news and editorial independence policy.

The Alligator and Campus Communications will post its donors for the current calendar year and its recent IRS 990 form on its website.