Cleveland 13 (WCTU) Editorial Standards Policy
​Last Updated: 8/14/2025
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Our Mission
Cleveland 13 News exists to connect our community through truth, transparency, and meaningful engagement.
Our mission is simple: We Connect Through Unity (WCTU).
We are committed to covering the stories that matter most to Northeast Ohio, from the streets of Cleveland to the neighborhoods that make up our region; with integrity, accuracy, and respect.
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Our Core Principles
We believe every story has a human impact, and we report with these guiding principles:
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Accuracy First – Every fact we publish must be verified through credible sources or firsthand documentation.
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Fairness and Balance – We seek out all relevant perspectives and give individuals, organizations, and public officials the opportunity to respond before publication.
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Transparency – We explain our sourcing when possible, disclose limitations, and clearly label corrections and updates.
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Independence – We do not allow advertisers, sponsors, or outside entities to dictate our editorial decisions.
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Accountability – If we make a mistake, we correct it promptly and openly.
Our Reporting Process
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Story Selection
We focus on stories with clear relevance to our audience, including public safety, community issues, local government, culture, events, and investigative pieces that hold power to account. -
Verification
All information is cross-checked against reliable sources. When relying on anonymous sources, we require direct knowledge of the information and a compelling reason for anonymity. -
Community Engagement
We actively invite community voices into our reporting. Through our 13 distribution platforms; broadcast partners, digital, streaming, social media, radio, print and more. We ensure stories are accessible to all.
Labeling of Content
To maintain clarity for our audience:
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News – Fact-based reporting on current events.
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Analysis – In-depth examination of news events with context, data, and expert insight.
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Opinion – Clearly marked perspectives from contributors, columnists, or community members.
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Sponsored / Partner Content – Disclosed prominently when content is produced in partnership with or funded by an advertiser.
Corrections & Updates
Cleveland 13 News is committed to promptly correcting factual errors and clarifying information when necessary.
All corrections are clearly marked with the date and nature of the change.
Our full policy can be read here: Corrections & Updates Policy.
Ethics & Independence
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Our editorial decisions are made by our newsroom team without influence from advertisers, political parties, or special interest groups.
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We disclose conflicts of interest and recuse staff from coverage where personal or financial interests could compromise impartiality.
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We adhere to the principle that public trust is earned daily, through consistent and responsible reporting.
Diversity & Inclusion
We strive to represent the diversity of our community in our sourcing, story topics, language, and imagery.
We believe inclusive coverage leads to more accurate and complete journalism.
How to Contact Us
We welcome feedback, story tips, and questions about our reporting.
Contact the Cleveland 13 News newsroom:
📧 tips@cleveland13news.com
📞 (216) 532-51538
Or visit our Contact Page.
About Cleveland 13 News
Founded on the belief that local news should unite rather than divide, Cleveland 13 News is a multi-platform, non-profit, community-powered newsroom.
We are ranked among the top news sources in Northeast Ohio and built by Emmy-winning reporters, respected broadcasters, and local leaders who share a passion for truth and transparency.