Media Coverage Of Racial Profiling At Ball State University

In a democracy, there is much value in a free press. The press keeps the government in check. Ken Paulson of the First Amendment Center says many argue that “the watchdog role of a free press is critical to keeping government in check and our rights intact.” If a government is acting corrupt or against public interest, the press makes this information known to the American people. Then, as constituents, they can choose to reelect those politicians or elect new ones to better serve their interests. Journalists keep the public informed and the government mostly transparent. The press includes journalists in print media, such as magazines and newspapers, but also broadcast journalists for television and radio and book authors. Anyone who publishes

On a college level, we cover issues and events around the university, even if the university doesn’t want us to do so. For example, NewsLink and the Daily News did extensive research, prodding and interviewing to find out information regarding the resignation of Paul Ferguson as Ball State’s president. Although the exact cause remains unknown, those student media groups did uncover a lot of information and published it for students, faculty and parents to read and view. It was important to cover because their money is paying for Ball State University and the lack of transparency is and was frustrating for those who want its success and success for their students. On a state level, the press also acts as a watchdog. The Indianapolis Star and other Indiana news outlets covered the new Religious Freedom Restoration Act signed by Gov. Mike Pence last year and uncovered that it allowed business and individuals to refuse housing, employment and service based on an individual’s sexual orientation or gender identity. The same is true for North Carolina in which The Charlotte Observer and other North Carolina news outlets did extensive coverage on its transgender bathroom laws, which required individuals to use the restroom that corresponds with the sex on their birth certificates. State news outlets relay information to the public that they otherwise might not know about. The media coverage in the state had a large influence on the gubernatorial election there, as Democratic challenger is leading Republican incumbent Gov. Pat McCrory by 10,000 votes in a race that has yet to be decided. On a national level, The New York Times, CNN, Fox News, The Washington Post and other news organizations act as watchdogs for our national government. Whether it was a government shutdown, Benghazi attacks, the Edward Snowden leaks, or the IRS targeting of conservatives, the national news sources provided background