What to Do When Sources Dismiss the Press

In journalism, the quality of information relies heavily on the credibility of sources, whether they are personal, official, or anonymous whistle-blowers. Transparency is much needed in journalist-source relationships, especially considering the potential risks involved for the sources, particularly in sensitive situations like humanitarian crises or war zones. Journalists must evaluate both the reliability and vulnerability of their sources, being transparent about their journalistic process and motives for covering a story. The use of subterfuge or deception in sourcing should be avoided except in rare and extreme circumstances.

Journalists report facing growing obstacles in accessing critical events and obtaining information from key sources, particularly those in positions of power. They encounter tactics aimed at denying, delaying, or distracting them from their work, often facing denouncement or harassment in the process. Access to important events and essential sources is increasingly restricted, hindering journalists' ability to fulfill their duty of informing local news audiences effectively.

When a Source Won’t Comply

Many newsmakers now exhibit patterns of media evasion and selective engagement, often favoring friendly or aligned media outlets to avoid accountability or pushback. Some sources, once willing to engage with reporters, now actively avoid media interaction.

For instance, during a campaign event for Pennsylvania governor in 2022, sponsored by Turning Point Action, journalists were required to agree to strict rules regarding recorded content. Cindi Lash of WESA public media covered the event from outside the venue, as her team refused to comply with the restrictive conditions. This evasion of media interaction has been facilitated by factors such as the 24/7 news cycle and social media, enabling public figures to bypass journalists while still reaching their target audience effectively.

Ways to Mitigate the Situation

Instead of fixating on uncooperative sources, journalists can prioritize finding where sources are willing to engage and invest time and effort in building relationships there. This requires a renewed dedication to getting out of the office and actively seeking information.

Collaborating with other journalists may push things along, to pool resources and leverage legal rights to access public documents, even if it means going to court. It is paramount to communicate to their audience why these legal efforts are essential for the community.

Embracing partnerships with fellow journalists to expand coverage and share resources maximizes efficiency and effectiveness in reporting. Also sending a copy of the story they are proud of to the person they wish would have been in the story — even if the journalists think they are wildly out of your league.

When Physical Barriers Separating Journalists From their Sources Emerge

Before the pandemic, journalists had unrestricted access to the New York State Assembly floor, enabling direct interaction with lawmakers and firsthand observation of informal gatherings. However, pandemic restrictions confined reporters to limited seating at the back of the chamber. Despite requests from various entities and the lifting of health-related restrictions, the Democratic supermajority continues to deny physical access to journalists in the lower house.

However, with the onset of pandemic lockdowns, the once welcoming floor of the Assembly transformed. Reporters found themselves relegated to a mere handful of seats positioned at the back of the chamber. This spatial constraint drastically limited their ability to engage with lawmakers and hindered their capacity to observe and report on the inner workings of the Assembly. 

As mentioned above, it may be a helpful measure to take to work with other journalists as opposed to competing with them and put competitive instincts aside in this case to come together, considering it is all journalists being refused access to the legislative chamber within the Assembly.

Putting it All Together

In navigating the challenges of journalist-source relationships and access to critical information, collaboration emerges as a powerful tool. Amidst patterns of media evasion and restricted access, journalists can build relationships where sources are willing to engage and unite efforts with fellow journalists to maximize coverage and efficiency. The denial of physical access shows the importance of solidarity among journalists in advocating for transparency and accountability. By working together and communicating the significance of their legal efforts, journalists can effectively counteract barriers and fulfill their vital role in informing the public.