Ethics & Corrections Policy
Our commitment to accuracy, transparency, and accountability is the foundation of everything we publish.
Last updated:
Our Commitment to Accuracy & Transparency
Verification Before Publication
Every factual claim in our reporting is verified through at least two independent, credible sources before publication. When a single-source claim cannot be independently corroborated, we clearly disclose this limitation to readers. We do not publish information we cannot verify.
Source Transparency
We identify our sources by name and affiliation whenever possible. When sources request anonymity, we explain to readers why anonymity was granted and what type of source provided the information (e.g., 'a current employee with direct knowledge of the matter'). We do not grant anonymity to sources who use it to attack others.
Editorial Independence
Active Advocate's editorial decisions are made independently of our advertisers, sponsors, donors, and any affiliated organizations. No outside party has the right to review, approve, or suppress our reporting before publication. Our journalists and editors are prohibited from accepting gifts, payments, or other benefits from sources or subjects of coverage.
Conflicts of Interest
Journalists and editors must disclose any personal, financial, or professional relationship with the subjects they cover. When a conflict of interest is identified, the affected staff member is recused from that coverage. We publish disclosures at the bottom of any story where a potential conflict exists.
Distinguishing News from Opinion
We clearly label all opinion, analysis, and advocacy content so readers can distinguish it from straight news reporting. Opinion pieces represent the views of their authors, not the editorial position of Active Advocate. Our news reporting strives to present facts without editorial slant.
Right of Reply
Individuals and organizations that are the subject of critical reporting are given a meaningful opportunity to respond before publication. We include their responses in the story. If a subject declines to comment or does not respond within a reasonable deadline, we note that in the story.
Use of Artificial Intelligence
Active Advocate discloses when artificial intelligence tools are used in the reporting, writing, or editing process. AI-generated content is always reviewed and verified by a human journalist before publication. We do not use AI to fabricate quotes, sources, or events.
How We Correct Errors
We hold ourselves to the same standard of accountability we apply to the institutions we cover. When we make a mistake, we correct it promptly, transparently, and without minimizing the error.
Report an Error
Readers, sources, and subjects can report factual errors, misleading framing, or missing context by emailing [email protected] or using the 'Report a Correction' link found at the bottom of every article. We review all correction requests.
Internal Review
Upon receiving a correction request, the responsible editor reviews the original reporting, source materials, and the nature of the alleged error. This review is completed within 48 hours for digital content. The reporter involved is consulted as part of the review.
Correction Published
If an error is confirmed, a correction is appended to the original article and labeled clearly as a 'Correction.' The correction states what was originally reported, what the accurate information is, and when the correction was made. We do not silently alter articles without a correction notice.
Proportional Response
The scope of our correction matches the severity of the error. Minor factual errors (e.g., a misspelled name or incorrect date) receive an inline correction note. Significant errors that affected the substance of a story may result in an editor's note at the top of the article, a follow-up story, or in rare cases, retraction of the original piece.
Retraction Policy
In cases where a story is found to be fundamentally inaccurate or was published in violation of our editorial standards, we will retract the story in full. Retracted stories are replaced with a retraction notice explaining why the story was removed. We do not delete retracted stories without explanation.
Contact Our Editorial Team
Questions about our editorial standards, concerns about a specific story, or requests for corrections can be directed to our editorial team.