CHAPTER 06 Towards Inclusion - Editorial Policies and Leadership "Transparency in journalism is a beacon of integrity, guiding us toward accountability and truth." — Dr. Anthea Cheung, Lecturer in Media and Communication, University of Sydney GUIDING PRINCIPLES: WHAT IS INCLUSIVE LEADERSHIP? Inclusive leadership within journalism fundamentally involves fostering an environment where diversity is valued, equity is sought, and inclusivity is practised. It means leading in a way that respects and appreciates differences in identity, background, and viewpoint among members of an editorial team and the broader community. Such leaders prioritise transparency and accountability, ensuring that these values permeate all levels of the organisation, and commit to cultivating an anti-racist workplace and media environment. 1. Empathy and Awareness: Leaders should demonstrate a deep understanding of cultural nuances and personal histories, including through continuous professional development training, and commit to promoting an anti-racist and inclusive workplace culture where every team member feels understood and valued. | CHAPTER 06 2. Cultural Liaison Team: Leaders can enhance inclusivity by inviting current and former journalists and content creators to serve as cultural liaisons, offering confidential channels to address content-related issues and industry concerns. \ These roles could foster remunerated cultural support, provide valuable insights to management, and help bridge gaps between staff and community, thereby nurturing culturally safe work environments and driving impactful content and community engagement initiatives. 3. Centre First Nations Perspectives: Leaders should recognise and commit resources to centre First Nation perspectives not as a tokenistic inclusion but as an integral part of all narrative constructions. This would require leadership commitment to structurally strengthen First Nations cultural safety and anti-racism in the work environment. 45