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Reflection: I have recently been having some long thoughts about my positions on NZ'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'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'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'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's best.
Oh and of course the amazing @AnnaGConnell. Thank you sincerely.
