Tired. Just tired.
Ok, I have gone from being frustrated to upset to annoyed to just plain defeated today. I am too tired to post the whole thing, but suffice it to say I got a scoop, said scoop was controversial, the subject of said scoop made a few empty threats, the company caved and took my scoop away. They didn't decide against running the story because it was a bad story or not relevant, but because it could, and I stress the minute possibility of could, cost the company money.It goes against every journalistic ethic I have to give up on a story because it was unfavorable toward a person and they objected to it running. I'm sorry, if you don't want bad news reported about you, don't do stupid, newsworthy things. Just because you think no one will find out doesn't mean we won't. It is my JOB to find them out, then tell other people about them.
I am just feeling a bit discouraged. If I'm not allowed to report on bad news because someone might sue us, even if all the facts are correct and they have no legal legs to stand on, then what does that make me? A parrot for PR people? A copy editor who just fixes grammar and spelling? Why should I bother looking for and reporting on good stories? What difference will it make if I can't tell them?
I am sure I will feel better in the morning, but tonight I'm not ok with it. I know there is nothing I can do about it, that the decision was made and that is that. But that doesn't stop it from depressing me. Here's hoping tomorrow will be a better day.
posted by Toni @ 10:53 PM
Comments: 3
