Respecting limits

Every time pack journalists cover mass misfortune, there's a danger of stomping on the privacy and grief of victims and their families. The SPJ Code of Ethics reminds journalists to think about the other side - i.e., "Recognize that gathering and reporting information may cause harm or discomfort. Pursuit of the news is not a license for arrogance" and "Show compassion for those who may be affected adversely by news coverage. Use special sensitivity when dealing with children and inexperienced sources or subjects." Tonight, I read an interesting exchange about a memorial service for a Virginia Tech student victim. A local journalist objected to the forceful edict banning the media from a public building. The victim's father explained his intent. The debate on this blog was quite personal - and remarkably cordial. http://rappvoice.com/2007/04/22/rights/