When fact-checking, co-creational news media projects should be sensitive to the meaning – intended and unintended – of the language used by and about people. Most people and groups prefer to be described in certain ways. These preferred descriptions can change rapidly and are not always the same for all members of the same group at the same time.
As well as checking that terminology is appropriate, it’s also important to ensure that the publication of certain facts - about a person’s sexual orientation, for example – does not put them in danger. In these ways, co-creational fact-checking can create richer stories than the top-down model of professional news media.
Tips
- Use fact-checking as an opportunity to explore the truth together with participants with a sense of humility and curiosity.
- Balance the search for truth with the need to safeguard vulnerable participants. Consult participants before publishing facts which may put them at risk.
- Consult participants on their preferred terminology but recognise that members of a group may not all agree about this and be prepared to explain your choice of terminology if this is contested. Watch out for terminology that has hidden meanings, particularly if there is a risk that this might incite hatred or discrimination.
Example
- MAIA have reflected deeply on what it means to develop an organisation as an ‘infrastructure of care’.
