Am I Unethical?

Journalism ethics have been, historically, a murky and inconsistent field where reporters often find themselves just doing what feels right. But are there specific considerations needed in investigative journalism, or in the coverage of sensitive topics? And should there be specific considerations based on a journalist's personal experience?

This semester, I spent four months covering drug-facilitated sexual assault (DFSA) in and around the Vancouver area, and tonight I hope to audit my work as impartially as I can. In my coverage of this topic, especially considering my personal experiences and opinions, was I ethical? What makes a journalist truly "ethical"?

Content warning: This talk will contain discussions of DFSA, sexual assault, compassion fatigue, and drugging, including stories and personal anecdotes. It will also contain brief mentions of specific drugs, vomit, and overdose, and I will be showing the photo “The Vulture and the Little Girl” and discussing its story.

Claire Donnan is a first-year Master of Journalism student from St John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador. She holds an Honours Bachelor of Digital Journalism from the University of Ottawa, and a Diploma of Journalism, Honours from Algonquin College. She has worked for the CBC, the Algonquin Times, The Globe and Mail, and The Ubyssey. She intends to specialize in global reporting. When not chasing a story, Claire enjoys black coffee, punching things, and acting like a fool onstage.