Journalism has become an extremely difficult profession to practice.
The inherent risks of the profession itself are no longer the only challenge; we must now navigate other unforeseen factors—consequences of the propaganda disseminated by major media outlets, the current manner in which politics is conducted, among other elements.
As a direct consequence of journalism being used for propaganda and manipulation, we now have an angry audience—one that feels deceived and generally distrusts everything and everyone. And with good reason.
This has opened the door for independent journalism—the kind I have always practiced. Once an incredibly uphill battle, it is now the most widely practiced form, though unfortunately, also the most misused and debased. Advancements in technology have been a great tool in making all of this possible.
However, independent journalism is being tarnished by a practice entirely detached from integrity and respect for the audience. Added to this are absurd conspiracy theories and a very low standard where gossip, name-calling, offenses, and insults have become the norm and the ordinary.
We should have never come to this. Never.
Currently, the journalistic content being produced is meant to politically neutralize and discredit people we dislike or who have attacked us. Serious, balanced, apolitical, and high-caliber investigations are a thing of the past. Reporting the facts—what journalism actually is—no longer exists. Today, 100% of what is generated for the audience is completely driven by the journalist’s political stance and is designed to harm others.
Not to mention the gravity of those playing at being journalists, and how that has damaged the guild and the profession.
So we are left to ask ourselves: What happened? And what do we do now?
Those of us journalists who remain apart, detached from the current circus journalism has become must stand firm, centered, and focused on doing the right thing.
A journalist asks, investigates, interviews both sides, stays on the sidelines, does not take a stance, and asks uncomfortable questions to whoever needs them, all just to get at least closer to the truth.
Fewer of us remain each day, and for the sake of truth, our profession, and out of respect for the audience, it is imperative that we defend what little is left of our guild with everything we have.
I want to believe that better times will come; for now, we must navigate the darkness with stoicism and integrity.
To stop doing the right thing or to stay silent is not an option.
About the author:
Jennifer Barreto-Leyva is a multi-faceted professional and a powerhouse in the Hispanic community.
She is an attorney, journalist, and author. Pro-life activist. Former Fox News correspondent. Is part of the editorial national board of the Republican National Hispanic Assembly. Boasts a distinguished 31-year career in the media industry. TV and radio host and producer. Former Venezuelan ambassador at the Britts Global organization in the United Nations. Politics analyst. Opinion columnist, President of The Ladies Coalition. Director for LATAM of Latinas 4 life.
Named for Parade Magazine, 7 years in a row, as one of the 50 most influential and powerful Latinas worldwide.