Reflecting on the Decline of The Washington Post

Revisiting the Principles of Journalism

The Washington Post was, for decades, more than just a newspaper; it embodied the very spirit of independent journalism through Eugene Meyer's Seven Principles for the Conduct of a Newspaper. These principles were not mere decorations on the wall; they served as a foundational guide for reporters aiming to uncover the truth and hold power accountable.

As I reflect on my years at The Post, I'm reminded of how these principles shaped my approach to journalism. They emphasized not only the responsibility to tell the truth but the moral imperative to do so with humility and fairness. The changing landscape of media—exemplified by recent layoffs and shifts in editorial focus—poses grave questions about the future of these ideals.

A Personal Connection to a Lost Era

When I first entered The Post's newsroom in July 2005, I felt the weight of its storied legacy. The principles were prominently displayed, commanding attention and respect from all who walked through those doors. I drew strength and confidence from them as I learned the ropes, surrounded by seasoned professionals whose commitment to ethical journalism inspired me daily. Now, almost two decades later, as The Post undergoes drastic cuts, my heart aches for both the institution and the ethos that has guided it.

“The first mission of a newspaper is to tell the truth as nearly as the truth may be ascertained.”

This first principle serves as a reminder that truth is not just another commodity to be slashed for profits; it's the lifeblood of any responsible journalism. Yet, as staffing diminishes and coverage areas shrink—local news, arts, culture—we face a chilling truth: the essence of The Post is at serious risk.

The Peril of Commercial Interests

In 2013, Amazon founder Jeff Bezos purchased The Washington Post, promising to respect its independence. However, it seems that vision has deteriorated under current management. Recent cuts in staffing and resources raise concerns that material interests now overshadow editorial integrity. How do we maintain journalistic independence when economic pressures dictate coverage priorities?

• Layoffs over the last few years have decimated many editorial departments.
• Covering local issues and community affairs has taken a back seat to headline stories.
• The Amazon beat reporter—a position once deemed essential—has been eliminated.

These sacrifices beg the question: Have we forsaken our duty to inform the public in favor of prioritizing profitability?

Calling for Accountability

I urge The Post's leadership to revisit Meyer's display and reflect deeply on their responsibilities. The principles are more than just words; they encapsulate a sacred vow to readers and the public at large—to serve their interests, not just those of shareholders or owners.

“The newspaper's duty is to its readers and to the public at large, and not to the private interests of its owners.”

When Bezos bought The Post, he suggested doing exactly that. Yet, given the current trajectory, it appears that such promises have become mere rhetoric.

A Grief for a Changing Landscape

It's easy to romanticize a golden age of journalism, but the current state of The Post compels me to question what the future holds for journalism itself. With ongoing cuts and diminished reporting capacities, we stand on a precipice. Will future journalists carry forward these essential principles, or will they fade into obscurity?

As I write this, I keep close at heart the reflections of Katharine Graham, who once articulated the contradiction that lies at the heart of our profession: how to uphold idealistic principles in an often harsh and unforgiving media environment. She recognized the fragility of these ideals and the importance of translating them into actionable work.

“How do we take them down from the wall and put them in the business model?”

Conclusion: A Call to Action

It is imperative to defend the core of what The Washington Post stands for: an unwavering commitment to truth-telling, accountability, and civic responsibility. As aspirants for this noble profession, we must resist complacency and remain vigilant against the socio-economic challenges that threaten our field.

I hope that we do not witness the complete erosion of The Post as we know it. The roots of accountability and ethical journalism are too integral to the heart of democracy to lose. An introspection on Mayer's principles reminds us that if we abandon these foundations, we risk losing not just a newspaper but the vital service journalism provides to society.

Let us strive to uphold these guiding principles. They aren't merely relics of a bygone era; they are our compass, our obligation, and our rallying cry in times of uncertainty.