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ATL Direct Ethics Policy

ATL Direct Ethics Policy

Last Updated: August 2025

As a digital newsroom operated by the City of Atlanta, ATL Direct is guided by a commitment to integrity, transparency, public trust, and civic responsibility. The stories we tell represent the people, policies, and progress of our city and our ethical standards reflect the seriousness of that responsibility.

This Ethics Policy outlines the principles and standards that guide our publishing practices.

1. Commitment to Accuracy and Truth

We strive to present information that is fact-based, verifiable, and clear. All content published on ATL Direct undergoes a review process that prioritizes factual accuracy and relevance to City of Atlanta residents.

  • Factual claims are sourced from official records, government agencies, or verified data.

  • Mistakes, when identified, are corrected promptly and transparently (see Correction Policy).

  • Opinions and editorial content are clearly distinguished from official updates or policy statements.

2. Civic Transparency and Public Interest

Our goal is to ensure that City information is accessible, understandable, and delivered without unnecessary complexity or delay. ATL Direct serves the public interest—not political, commercial, or individual agendas.

  • We disclose sources for data, metrics, and project updates.

  • We publish context alongside decisions and policy changes.

  • We elevate community voices while respecting privacy, consent, and dignity.

3. Impartiality and Editorial Independence

Although ATL Direct is a City-led platform, editorial decisions are made to support truthful, inclusive storytelling—not propaganda or public relations.

  • Departments submit stories, but editorial framing is designed to meet the information needs of residents.

  • ATL Direct does not endorse political candidates or private entities.

  • Stories featuring city-funded projects or contractors are framed through a public accountability lens.

4. Respect and Inclusion

We aim to reflect the full diversity of Atlanta’s communities across race, gender, age, ability, language, and lived experience.

  • Language should be inclusive, human-centered, and respectful of cultural nuance.

  • We avoid stigmatizing, dehumanizing, or reductive portrayals—especially around topics such as homelessness, public health, or justice.

  • We seek stories that highlight the strengths and contributions of all neighborhoods.

5. Data Integrity and Responsible Use of Technology

When using data visualizations, AI-generated content, or digital tools, we do so responsibly.

  • Data used in visualizations or dashboards must be clearly labeled and sourced.

  • Any use of automation or AI-assisted writing is reviewed by human editors before publication.

  • Personally identifiable information (PII) is never published without consent and legitimate public interest.

6. Corrections and Retractions

We are committed to acknowledging errors quickly and clearly. See our Corrections Policy for more information on how we handle factual updates and reader-reported inaccuracies.

7. Community Feedback and Continuous Improvement

We welcome and encourage resident feedback. Community input helps us grow and ensures we’re meeting our mission. Learn more about how we collect and respond to feedback on our Engagement and Transparency page.

ATL Direct is more than a website, it’s a public trust. Upholding these ethics ensures we remain worthy of that trust, now and into the future.

For questions or concerns about this policy, email us by clicking here.