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Reflection: I have recently been having some long thoughts about my positions on NZ& #39;s media. This thread is going to be a lot of apologies, some humble pie to eat, and a clarification of what I think we all want. The media in NZ is an easy punching bag, and I have taken part. 1/
I think criticism of these institutions is definitely warranted, and I feel like the current apparatus for holding these institutions to account are unfit for purpose which creates a system of natural distrust. This has the consequence of directly attacking reporters. 2/
But the reporters are usually opening under editorial instruction. @joshua_drummond has many times pointed out that we should direct our rage over the bad parts of reporting at Senior Editorial staff and CEOs, as well as advertisers. I think this is very important. 3/
I also would like to extend my apologies for callous remarks made at the expense of hard working reporters trying to operate in a systemic framework where shock jock journalism unfortunately pays for some of their work. These issues are more complex than we& #39;d like to believe. 4/
The truth is that even the organizations I consider to be net bad in some cases have still provided us with political insight that is needed. There are positive initiatives within some larger news organizations. Stuff& #39;s Climate Crisis coverage is gold standard. 5/
The thing that has made me so critical of media in the COVID-19 era is the callous disregard of vulnerable people when contrarian opinions about life and death are published. Pineapple on Pizza is a difference of opinion. Undermining the lives of thousands is eugenics. 6/
To @PatrickCrewdson specifically I& #39;d like to offer a sincere and regretful apology. My behaviour the day another article arguing for the importance of my life was the last in a line that finally broke me, however personally attacking you is inexcusable. 7/
In light of this and because of the strong bench of hard working non-contrarian reporters who work for the public good. I will now be making contributions to Stuff as the importance of larger media outlets has been made clear by smaller organizations I support.
And finally thank you to those kinder voices in media such as @Alisonmau, @kirsty_johnston, @MattNippert, and @henrycooke who humbly remind me of the damage I am doing when I attack a 4th estate trying to do it& #39;s best.
Oh and of course the amazing @AnnaGConnell. Thank you sincerely.
