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The Provincial Times – Content Policy
Effective date: April 15, 2025
At Left Lane Media Group, we believe journalism is a public trust. It is a calling rooted in the pursuit of truth, the defense of democracy, and the conviction that a better-informed society is a stronger one. Our commitment is not to the powerful, but to the people. As such, The Provincial Times operates with a deep respect for ethical journalism, community standards, and human dignity.
Editorial Independence
We maintain full editorial independence from political parties, corporate interests, and government institutions. Our reporters, editors, and contributors are beholden only to the public interest. The Provincial Times does not publish material that seeks to distort the truth, launder ideology, or manipulate public perception for private gain. Decisions about coverage, tone, and framing are made internally — free from outside interference.
Zero Tolerance for Hate and Discrimination
Let us be unequivocal: The Provincial Times does not — and will never — publish or platform content that is racist, sexist, homophobic, transphobic, biphobic, ableist, or discriminatory in any form. We will not legitimize hate, nor will we offer neutrality in the face of injustice. Our zero-tolerance policy applies across all platforms, from feature stories to social media comments. We reserve the right to remove or refuse content that violates the fundamental dignity of others.
Fact-Based Reporting and Accountability
We believe facts matter. All published content must meet a high threshold for accuracy, verification, and context. Mistakes happen — when they do, we will correct them promptly and transparently. Every correction will be documented publicly to preserve reader trust. We hold ourselves to the same standard we expect of others: rigorous, honest, and responsible.
Artificial Intelligence Policy
The Provincial Times enforces a strict ban on the use of artificial intelligence tools, including but not limited to AI-generated text, imagery, or audio, in the production of original journalism. We believe journalism must be human — researched by human minds, written with human perspective, and accountable to human communities. Our reporters, columnists, editors, and freelance contributors are prohibited from using generative AI in their work. The future of media must be grounded in integrity, not automation.
Ethical Sourcing and Attribution
We expect all reporting to be sourced responsibly, with careful attribution and respect for individuals’ privacy and safety. Anonymous sources will be used sparingly, and only when justified by clear public interest. We seek to elevate firsthand voices — especially from those too often excluded from mainstream narratives.
Commentary and Opinion
Opinions featured in The Provincial Times reflect the perspective of their authors and are clearly identified as such. We welcome strong views and constructive criticism, but we draw the line at content that is inflammatory, conspiratorial, or rooted in disinformation. We do not publish content that targets individuals based on identity or promotes ideological agendas that run counter to our human rights values.
Advertising and Funding Transparency
Editorial content and commercial sponsorship are kept entirely separate. We disclose any and all sponsorship arrangements and clearly label advertorial or paid content. We accept donations, but not influence.
Reader Engagement and Corrections
We value our readers and welcome their feedback. Concerns or complaints about published material will be addressed seriously and respectfully by our editorial team. When errors occur, they will be acknowledged directly and corrected publicly.
Our Promise
The Provincial Times exists because there is a need for principled, grassroots, progressive journalism that refuses to compromise on justice, truth, or equity. We will not chase clicks at the expense of ethics. We will not appease the powerful at the expense of the public. And we will never lose sight of who we serve — the readers, the workers, the unheard.