Bias in journalism can undermine audience trust, a crucial element for news organizations. This week, veteran CBC correspondent Margaret Evans sparked controversy by wearing a scarf resembling a keffiyeh while reporting. The keffiyeh is a symbol that can represent resistance or be viewed as a symbol of antisemitic sentiment, depending on one's perspective. While the scarf was not definitively a keffiyeh, its resemblance raised concerns among many Canadian Jews and supporters of Israel.

Critics argue that Evans should have been more mindful of her wardrobe choice. The situation is compounded by the fact that a team of CBC professionals, including directors, camera operators, and editors, failed to address the potential implications of the scarf before the broadcast. This oversight is particularly troubling given that the CBC is already facing scrutiny for perceived bias in its coverage of the Israel-Hamas conflict.

In a separate incident, a CTV News anchor in Victoria, B.C., introduced a report with the statement, "Israel continues its genocidal campaign against the people of Palestine." This assertion was presented without attribution or context, failing to acknowledge Israel's strong denials of such claims. The lack of balance in the reporting raises questions about the editorial standards in place at the network.

Typically, newsrooms have multiple layers of review to ensure accuracy and fairness. A writer drafts the content, a producer edits it, and an anchor reviews it before it airs. The failure to question the language used in these instances reflects a broader issue within the media. Reporters are expected to avoid editorializing without proper attribution and to dress in a manner that supports their credibility.

The erosion of these basic principles can diminish the credibility of all mainstream media outlets. In an industry already facing challenges such as layoffs, declining audiences, and the rise of artificial intelligence, maintaining credibility is essential. Once lost, trust is difficult to regain, making it imperative for news organizations to uphold high standards of reporting.