5 Essential Tips for Reporting on Immigration Raids: from NAHJ

Covering immigration raids requires a deep understanding of the sensitive and complex nature of the subject. The National Association of Hispanic Journalists (NAHJ) has provided guidelines for journalists to help ensure they report on these events with accuracy, ethics, and care. As journalists, our role is to inform, protect, and elevate the voices of those most impacted. Here are five critical takeaways from NAHJ’s guidelines that can guide responsible and compassionate reporting on immigration raids:

1. Verify Before You Report: Always confirm facts with trusted sources like law enforcement and community groups. Avoid spreading unverified information that could cause harm.
2. Protect Privacy and Safety: Be mindful of how you report. Avoid exposing identifying details or publishing images that could endanger individuals affected by the raid.
3. Center Community Voices: Highlight perspectives from immigrants, families, and advocates to provide a fuller, human-centered story beyond official statements.
4. Report with Sensitivity: Avoid sensationalizing trauma. Instead, focus on resilience, community responses, and available resources for those impacted.
5. Use Respectful Language: Avoid dehumanizing terms like “illegal immigrant.” Use accurate, compassionate language such as “undocumented immigrant” to uphold dignity.

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