We Want Media

Most of us want our privacy protected. Privacy on the Internet has been a hot issue, especially with the recent ruling that Google should turn over some of its search data to the government. Websites such as Google, MSN and Yahoo all have a privacy policy.

But what about journalists? Do they have the responsibility to protect the privacy of people that they report?

Gloria Rubio was an illegal immigrant who was arrested and is in the process of deportation after a social service reporter identified her with a photo in a story. The reporter later said that she didn't know what she would’ve done differently, since she asked many times, “Are you sure?”

Given the circumstances, I don’t think the simple question “Are you sure?” and some explanations were enough. I don’t think Gloria really understood the legal consequences. On the other hand, the reporter knew that identifying Rubio could lead to her deportation. The point to remember here is that the story was not about her illegal status. Although she was an illegal immigrant, Gloria was active in her community and paid taxes on time. The reporter even said the intention was “to showcase this service that helps immigrants to assimilate and pay taxes.” It’s unethical to identify someone just to avoid “reader skepticism or disbelief.” It just seems irresponsible to run the story and not care about the individuals who provide their stories.