Eric Holder Discusses Remembering Ethics In Journalism

This story originally appeared on NABJconvention.org .

At NABJ’s opening session Thursday, U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder talked about the duty journalists have to be honest and to cover all stories accurately and thoroughly.

He reminded NABJ members of their role as journalists and the importance of ethics in their work at the Philadelphia convention.

“Keep insisting that the full story of America is told,” said Holder. “Keep seeking out the important truths.”

During his speech, Holder referred to recent scandals that engulfed News Corporation where reporters were accused of phone hacking.

Some NABJ members said the behavior of those journalists was inexcusable.

Former NABJ president Barbara Ciara said the unethical decisions made by one person or group really affects all journalists and the people who trust them.

“The regular reader, viewer or listener is questioning every story that comes before them now because of this whole scandal that involves all of us as journalists,” Ciara said.

During the convention workshops and forums, NABJ members had the chance to talk with fellow journalists about ethical decisions and how to make them.

Holder asked NABJ members to continue maintaining checks and balances and seek justice in their work.

“That’s why today I ask each of you to keep up your work, keep asking the tough questions,” Holder said.