Everything that is unraveling right now in the House of Representatives is a crystal clear reminder that media literacy is so urgently needed. For sitting officials to be so blatantly unaware—or ignorant on purpose—of the role of the free press in a democracy is alarming.

My Twitter feed for the whole day is filled with snippets of frustration and sadness from my fellow journalists. Many of them have articulated my thoughts better than I could have, so let me just share this with you—

My well-worn copy of “The Elements of Journalism” by @TomRosenstiel & Bill Kovach. For many journ students, this was an essential part of our foundation. I think it would benefit our lawmakers to read this book & gain an understanding of the profession they are questioning today.

Let me highlight some of these elements—

Journalism’s first obligation is to the truth.

Its first loyalty is to citizens.

It must serve as an independent monitor of power.

Last I check, nowhere does it say that journalism should appease the feelings of officials in power or lick wounds slashed open when truth is being reported. Rather, it should keep on interrogating power, as my colleague @MatthewINQ brilliantly puts here: https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1199510/interrogating-power

That is not to say that journalism is high, mighty & perfect. As the fourth estate, it can commit mistakes, wield its power too much, make unsound judgment. Which brings me to the final element in the book: that citizens, too, have rights & responsibilities when it comes to news.

Citizens should ensure that the news they are receiving are accurate, truthful and independent. Citizens can air grievances and point out mistakes. But moving to shut a whole network just because it does not sit with your views is wrong and dangerous to a democracy.

Adding this note from @jodeszgavilan: While some may be blissfully unaware (or as I said, ignorant on purpose) on journalism’s roles and responsibilities, others are well-aware of its power and are threatened by it. https://twitter.com/jodeszgavilan/status/1280157648994873346?s=21 https://twitter.com/jodeszgavilan/status/1280157648994873346