The National Association of Hispanic Journalists offered new guidance for “how to accurately and inclusively cover mass shootings” in the wake of the El Paso Walmart shooting.
The NAHJ advised journalists “have empathy and become educated” about racism causes and rhetoric and called for accurate and unbiased language use in reporting. For example, NAHJ advised contextualizing the shootings, noting that El Paso typically has around 18 shooting deaths annually, so the Walmart shooting on its own resulted in more deaths than the annual average.
In line with typical advocacy recommendations, the NAHJ also called for journalists to focus on the victims and heroes and not the attacker. Specifically, the NAHJ recommended against featuring “pardoning” biographic details about the alleged shooter or any possible mental health issues.
Finally, the NAHJ advised journalists “use reporting and writing to urge progress and change” by focusing on “next steps.”
Hat Tip: Associations Now