Apology from Student Newspaper
This week, a student-run newspaper issued an apology, though it didn’t specifically address the classmates who lost their lives.
Sheridan Gorman, an 18-year-old student at Loyola University Chicago, was tragically shot and killed early on March 19 while taking a walk in a park with friends, as reported by the Department of Homeland Security.
According to DHS, Jose Medina-Medina, described as a “Venezuelan criminal illegal alien,” is accused of the shooting that claimed Gorman’s life while he was attempting to evade capture, wearing a mask.
In light of this, Loyola University Chicago’s newspaper has since apologized for referring to the individual as an “illegal immigrant.”
On Sunday, the Loyola Phoenix published an article that included an editor’s note addressing the language used in a previous Instagram post.
Initially, the outlet published a headline stating, “Immigrant Man Charged with Murder of Sheridan Gorman, DHS Involved,” which they later deemed inappropriate due to the harm it caused within the community. They removed the headline shortly after posting it, recognizing it didn’t convey the article’s most significant elements.
The student-led publication expressed remorse for its indiscriminate use of the term “illegal immigrant.”
The original Instagram caption referred to the accused as an “illegal immigrant” based on wording provided by the Department of Homeland Security. However, the memo indicated that this terminology is not aligned with the standards set by The Associated Press, nor does it reflect the newspaper’s values.
The Associated Press has indicated that the term “illegal” should refer only to an action, not a person. Instead, terms like “immigrant without permanent legal status” or “irregular immigrant” are suggested as alternatives. Phrases such as “illegal aliens” should be avoided unless used in a legal context, the style guide notes.
The Loyola Phoenix added that many immigrants possess some documentation, just not what is required.
The newspaper acknowledged the potential harm that such language can inflict, emphasizing the need for careful word choice.
They concluded with an expression of deep regret for the previous errors and a commitment to maintaining high journalistic standards and serving their communities with respect.
Meanwhile, DHS disclosed that Medina-Medina entered the United States in May 2023, only to be arrested after a shoplifting incident in Chicago and subsequently released in June 2023.
