As the media did with Katrina and continue to do with many other stories, they continue to get it wrong and fail at some of their most basic responsibilities.
Jena, La. – By now, almost everyone in America has heard of Jena, La., because they’ve all heard the story of the “Jena 6.” White students hanging nooses barely punished, a schoolyard fight, excessive punishment for the six black attackers, racist local officials, public outrage and protests – the outside media made sure everyone knew the basics.
There’s just one problem: The media got most of the basics wrong. In fact, I have never before witnessed such a disgrace in professional journalism. Myths replaced facts, and journalists abdicated their solemn duty to investigate every claim because they were seduced by a powerfully appealing but false narrative of racial injustice.
I should know. I live in Jena. My wife has taught at Jena High School for many years. And most important, I am probably the only reporter who has covered these events from the very beginning.
So no surprises here, just stating it for the record. Just add it to the list of reasons not to trust the mainstream for anything.
I don’t even trust this guy and that he got this right.
Tags: Media