We researched and compiled information on journalistic expertise, including writer’s ethics and integrity from a variety of sources to develop The Coffee Writer’s Values and Standards. Our values and common standards reflect on our journalistic endeavors and codify responsibilities for our membership.

• Have appropriate skills and ability to research topics, interview people, and gather information to present the best information for each article or story.

• Interpret information so that readers can easily understand the details and context of what is presented.

• Adhere to common elements of journalistic and media ethics including truthfulness, accuracy, objectivity, impartiality, fairness, and public accountability.

• Have sensitivity and show compassion avoiding discriminatory references based on race, religion, gender, sexual orientation or identity, disability, etc.

• Have sensitive for inclusion, respect, and acknowledgment of diversity

• Practice customary ethical writing standards:

  • Include factual information that can be verified and cite sources using a standard citation format.

  • Abstain from plagiarizing other’s work or copyrighted material.

  • Recognize and include various perspectives on a topic

• Avoid over-simplification and generalization. Present experiences and opinions as one’s own and not characterized as or representative of the specialty coffee industry or the overall coffee industry.

• Disclose any competing interest or sponsorships that may influence, bias or impact the perspective of your writing. including sources of information, financial support, or supply of coffee, equipment or other materials used to create your story or article.

Our Coffee Writer’s Values and Common Standards represents who we are, who we aspire to be, and what we stand for.

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