Speakout: Q&A

Q: Do you believe that the Herald was justified in firing reporters that took money from the United States government to support anti-castro sentiment?

They have a right to free speech. Would they fire them for using free speech? I think that’s absolutely wrong. They have the right to free speech.
— Stephen Lewis, Newswriter/Producer, WLS-TV

Certainly, because they went purporting to be journalists. It is an ethical breach that they should be held accountable for.
— Pam Spaulding, Pam’s House Blend

Based on the facts reported, the conflict of interest is a clean one that in most newsrooms I am familiar with would be grounds for dismissal. You have to keep interests of your readers at the forefront.
— Dana Eagles, Staff Development Editor, Orlando Sentinel

As journalists, we definitely have to disclose any conflict of interest with our employers … otherwise, the outlet loses credibility. They should be fired. I don’t think it’s the right thing for the government to try and influence another government. It’s an unethical way to get a message across to people who don’t necessarily need their message.
— Daniel Morales, Velazquez Press, El Monte, Calif.

I think it’s amazing the situation came about, that reporters were on the payroll of the government. I’m surprised that mainstream reporters would take money from the government. They should be fired. In this case, it’s very clear-cut.

— Sharif Durhams, Charlotte Observer, NLGJA chapter president, Raleigh, N.C.