Ethics & Style Guide

Purpose

This guide is meant to be a practical baseline for writing and creating content at The Flint City Times. It is rooted in Associated Press style and ethics, with expectations added to reflect our mission and community.

Our Mission

The Flint City Times is an independent news source dedicated to uncovering the stories that shape Flint, Michigan. With integrity and depth, we highlight the people, culture, and progress that make our city thrive—because every story here matters.

Every article should support this mission.

Core Ethical Principles

Accuracy Above All

  • Always try to answer, “Who, What, Where, When, Why, and How?”.
  • Verify every fact. Names, ages, titles, addresses, and dates must be correct.
  • Use primary sources whenever possible.
  • If information cannot be confirmed, do not publish it.

Independence

  • Avoid conflicts of interest, real or perceived.
  • Do not accept gifts, favors, or compensation from sources.
  • Disclose any personal or professional connection to a story to the editor.

Fairness & Balance

  • Seek relevant perspectives, especially from those directly affected.
  • Avoid sourcing the same officials or individuals repeatedly when alternatives exist.
  • Give subjects a reasonable opportunity to respond to allegations or criticism.
  • Avoid loaded language or assumptions.

Transparency

  • Identify sources clearly. Explain why anonymity is granted when used.
  • Seek gender, racial, and neighborhood diversity in sourcing.
  • Correct mistakes promptly and visibly.
  • Anonymous sources must be known to the Editor.

Harm Minimization

  • Show compassion when reporting on tragedy, crime, or vulnerable people.
  • Avoid unnecessary graphic detail.
  • Mugshots should be used sparingly and only when newsworthy.
  • Avoid photos that unnecessarily shame or endanger individuals.
  • Consider the long-term impact of publication on the Flint community.

Editorial Style & Writing Standards

Headlines & Article Titles

Headlines are often the first and sometimes only part of a story a reader sees. They must be accurate, clear, and grounded.

  • Headlines must clearly communicate what the story is about.
  • Headlines should be concise and mobile-friendly.
  • Use standard news title case for all headlines.
  • Do not use misleading phrasing, excessive punctuation, or sensational language.

Article Structure & Formatting

  • Start with “Flint, Mi -” (City, Abbreviated State -, of where the news takes place).
  • The article titles use Header 1.
  • Sub titles use Header 3.
  • The article body uses Paragraph.
  • Photo captions must credit the photographer, and hyperlink to their social media when able.

Writing Tone

  • Clear and direct.
  • Let facts lead; avoid opinion unless clearly labeled as commentary.
  • Gonzo Style Journalism is acceptable and welcome when stylistically and ethically appropriate.

Facts must remain verifiable, sourcing transparent, and commentary clearly identified.

Names & Titles

  • Use full names on first reference; last names thereafter.
  • Capitalize formal titles only when used before a name.

Numbers & Dates

  • Spell out one through nine; use numerals for 10 and above.
  • Use figures for ages, addresses, percentages, and money.
  • Use day and date without “th” or “nd.”

Quotations

  • Quote only what adds value.
  • Do not change the meaning of a quote.
  • Attribute quotes clearly and accurately.

Language & Inclusivity

  • Use person-first and respectful language.
  • Avoid stereotypes and unnecessary identifiers.
  • Be precise when describing race, gender, or background; include only when relevant.

All writers are expected to self-edit their work using Grammarly or an equivalent tool before submitting content to the editor.

Local Reporting Expectations

Community Focused Journalism

  • Prioritize stories that affect Flint residents directly.
  • Highlight solutions, accountability, and progress alongside problems.

Sources in Flint

  • Whenever possible, include voices from the city, not just officials.
  • Treat residents as experts on their own experiences.

Crime & Courts

  • Rely on verified records and on-the-record sources.
  • Avoid language that presumes guilt.
  • Be cautious with names in minor or sensitive cases.

Editorial Standards & Accountability

Sponsored Content & Advertising

The Flint City Times may publish sponsored content, advertising, or paid partnerships to support sustainable local journalism. All sponsored material must uphold transparency, editorial independence, and audience trust.

Clear Labeling

  • All sponsored content must be categorized as “Sponsored”.
  • Sponsored content must never be presented in a way that could confuse readers about its paid nature.

Editorial Independence

  • Advertisers and sponsors do not control editorial coverage, headlines, or news judgment.
  • The newsroom retains the right to refuse sponsored content that conflicts with our mission or ethical standards.

Content Standards

  • Sponsored content must be accurate, respectful, and factual.
  • False, misleading, or unsubstantiated claims are not permitted.
  • All sponsored content must align with our core values and serve the community.

Corrections Policy

  • Errors must be corrected as soon as they are confirmed.
  • The article should have all category tags as original content, along with the “Correction” category tag.
  • Corrections should be clear and factual.
  • Never quietly delete or rewrite errors without noting the change.

Use of AI & Automation

  • AI tools may assist with research, transcription, or editing.
  • AI may not fabricate content, sources, quotes, or facts.
  • Journalists remain fully responsible for accuracy.

Social Media & Public Conduct

  • Apply the same ethical standards online as in published stories.
  • Do not argue with readers or sources on social platforms.
  • Journalists should not pre-report or speculate on breaking news on personal accounts.
  • Avoid liking or sharing posts that do not align with The Flint City Times mission statement.

When in Doubt

  • If you are unsure about ethics, sourcing, or style:
  • Pause publication.
  • Consult the Editor.
  • Choose the option that best serves accuracy, fairness, and the Flint community.

This guide is a living document and may evolve as standards and community needs change.