Free speech is a constitutionally protected right, but it has limits. Notably, it does not extend to incitement of violence or efforts to intimidate voters. In the event of civil unrest, journalists will play a crucial role in ensuring free & fair elections. #Media4Democracy 1/

Set expectations. The nuances of the electoral process will receive great scrutiny this year, and results may not be known immediately. But journalists can and should articulate what is normal--as well as what is not. #Media4Democracy 2/

Beware false equivalence. Peaceful protest is a constitutionally protected right. Violence and intimidation are not. Journalists should avoid using benign-sounding terminology such as “militia” when “domestic terror groups” is more appropriate. #Media4Democracy 3/

Do not amplify bad actors. Journalists have a responsibility to report on consequential news stories, but they should not amplify calls for violence, threats of intimidation, or disinformation (which may also be difficult to disentangle). #Media4Democracy 4/

For more on best practices for reporting on extremists, antagonists, and manipulators, see this 2018 @datasociety report by @wphilips49 5/5

https://datasociety.net/library/oxygen-of-amplification/

#Media4Democracy