The Tribune is committed to the highest standards of integrity, accountability, and transparency in all of its operations. This policy aims to encourage staff and contractors to report any concerns about unethical, illegal, or questionable practices, including those related to editorial processes, business conduct, or internal operations, without fear of retaliation.
This policy applies to all employees, freelancers, contractors, volunteers, and contributors to The Tribune.
Concerns that may be reported include, but are not limited to:
Breach of editorial standards, including plagiarism or misrepresentation in reporting.
Unlawful activities, including financial misconduct, fraud, or bribery.
Conflicts of interest or inappropriate relationships with sources or advertisers.
Violations of employment rights or discriminatory practices.
Harassment, bullying, or abusive conduct within the workplace.
Retaliation against individuals who raise legitimate concerns.
Violations of journalistic ethics, such as the misuse of confidential sources or whistleblower identities.
Reporting Procedures
Internal Reporting: Concerns should be reported to a supervisor or the human resources department. Reports can be made in person, via email, or through an anonymous reporting channel if available (via hardcopy to the HR office).
Confidentiality: All whistleblower reports will be handled confidentially to the fullest extent possible, protecting the identity of the whistleblower. The whistleblower should be aware that there may be limits to confidentiality based on the need to conduct a thorough investigation.
Anonymous Reporting: Reports can be made anonymously. While anonymous reports are accepted, providing contact information may facilitate a more thorough investigation and resolution of the concern.
No employee or contractor who, in good faith, reports a concern shall suffer harassment, retaliation, or any form of detrimental treatment. Any employee or contractor found to have retaliated against a whistleblower will face disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment or contract.
Investigation Process
Acknowledgment: Upon receiving a report, The Tribune will acknowledge receipt of the complaint within three days.
Investigation: A thorough investigation will be conducted. Depending on the nature of the concern, this may involve internal or external investigators.
Outcome: The whistleblower will be informed of the outcome of the investigation, subject to legal and confidentiality constraints.
Corrective Action: If the investigation reveals misconduct, corrective action will be taken, which may include changes in policy, disciplinary action, or reporting to external authorities if required.
It is expected that whistleblowers report concerns in good faith. Any reports made maliciously or with the knowledge that they are false will be treated as a serious disciplinary offense.
All employees and contractors will receive this policy annually and be made aware of the available mechanisms for reporting concerns. The Tribune encourages open discussions about ethical behavior and accountability.
This policy will be reviewed at least annually to ensure its effectiveness and to make any necessary updates in line with legal requirements and best practices.
For any whistleblower reports or questions regarding this policy, please contact:
Whistleblower Officer/HR Contact Name: Dayanna Torres, dtorres@sltrib.com