These journalism ethics standards guide every story we publish at Wake Forest Matters. Our editorial policy is built on accuracy, independence, fairness, and transparency, ensuring our readers receive trustworthy local news.
Our Journalism Ethics Standards
We hold ourselves accountable to the communities we serve. Consequently, we follow clear journalism ethics standards that govern how we report, edit, and publish. These principles shape every aspect of our coverage.
Independence
Wake Forest Matters LLC independently owns and operates this publication. Although we accept advertising, advertisers have no influence over our editorial decisions. Furthermore, we never accept payment for coverage, suppress stories in exchange for advertising, or give businesses advance notice of critical coverage.
Accuracy in Reporting
We verify facts before publishing. Our reporters rely on primary sources, including public records, official documents, on-the-record interviews, and direct observation. When we make mistakes, we correct them promptly and transparently. See our Corrections policy for details.
Corrections Process
We append corrections to the bottom of the original article and note them clearly. In addition, we never silently edit published stories to change meaning. To request a correction, email publisher@wakeforestmatters.com with the article URL and the specific error.
Sources & Attribution
We prefer on-the-record sources. However, we grant anonymity only when a source has a legitimate reason to fear retaliation, the information is material and unavailable through other means, and we have independently verified the claim. As a result, we tell readers as much as possible about why a source remains anonymous.
Conflicts of Interest
Staff and contributors disclose any personal, financial, or professional relationships that could affect coverage. Moreover, we do not cover organizations in which we hold a financial stake. The publisher discloses outside professional work on the About page.
Opinion & News Separation
We clearly label all opinion content. News reporting excludes the reporter’s personal opinions. Similarly, editorial positions represent the views of Wake Forest Matters as a publication, not individual reporters.
Comments & Community Standards
We welcome civil disagreement. Nevertheless, we remove comments that are abusive, threatening, defamatory, or off-topic. Importantly, we never remove comments simply because they criticize our coverage.
Questions About Our Standards
Questions about our journalism ethics standards can be directed to publisher@wakeforestmatters.com. You can also see our Corrections policy, use our Tip Line for news tips, or learn more about Wake Forest Matters. For additional context on journalism ethics, see the Society of Professional Journalists Code of Ethics.
Last updated: March 2026