Veteran journalist and broadcaster Rick Saleeby is raising awareness about the need for stronger ethical standards in journalism, particularly as misinformation continues to rise. With over 20 years in news production and broadcasting, Saleeby has seen firsthand how false information erodes public trust and impacts society. His call to action? A commitment from journalists and media organizations alike to emphasize accuracy, integrity, and transparency in every story.
“In journalism, truth isn’t just a goal; it’s a responsibility,” says Saleeby. “With 90% of Americans reporting that misinformation is confusing basic facts, it’s clear that ethical journalism is essential. We have a duty to present the facts responsibly, especially when trust in media is declining.”
A recent Pew Research study revealed that nearly 70% of Americans worry about misinformation online. In response, Saleeby is encouraging media organizations to invest in fact-checking, promote transparency, and ensure journalists uphold high standards. He believes this renewed focus on integrity is essential to combating the rapid spread of false information across social media, where false stories spread six times faster than true ones, according to MIT.
“Social media is powerful, but without ethical oversight, it’s a breeding ground for misinformation,” Saleeby states. “Journalists are more than just messengers; we are guides. People rely on us to help them understand what’s credible and what’s not, and we have to honor that trust with accurate, well-sourced reporting.”
Saleeby’s own career spans roles at CNN, FOX News Channel, and News 12 Connecticut, where he held key positions in managing breaking news, overseeing editorial content, and shaping program narratives. He’s also worked closely with young journalists and believes that training the next generation in ethical journalism practices is essential for the profession’s future. He encourages young reporters to prioritize transparency, verify their sources, and avoid the rush for speed over accuracy.
“It’s easy to get caught up in the ‘race to be first,’ but we must remember that quality comes before speed. People deserve the truth, not sensationalism,” Saleeby adds. “By focusing on integrity, we create journalism that’s trustworthy and valuable, especially in a world increasingly influenced by AI and deepfakes.”
Saleeby’s advocacy also includes a call for stronger educational programs in media literacy, which he believes will empower the public to critically evaluate the information they consume. His goal is to see a generation of journalists who prioritize ethical reporting and audiences who know how to distinguish reliable news from misinformation.
“Journalism should empower people, not mislead them,” says Saleeby. “We owe it to the public to uphold standards that foster trust and transparency. Only by doing so can we preserve the integrity of our profession and protect the public’s right to honest information.”
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City: New York
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