Not long ago, it was pretty easy to tell the deference between a respected, vetted, news source and someone’s opinion based blog. News readers with authoritative voices, great production quality, and a recognized broadcast name were easy to differentiate from some angry ranter with a WordPress or Blogger page.

However, as news sources moved away from factual, hard-boiled, recitation of events and into more analysis, opinion and entertainment based formats, consumers began to question media bias. At the same time, technology advanced allowing just about anyone to easily and cheaply create a professional looking website that is virtually indistinguishable from the recognized names.

As humans, we are biologically programmed to reinforce information that fits with what we already know or think that we know and to reject ideas that don’t conform. Because of this inherent bias in us all, we tend to rely on news sources that align with our political beliefs and accept what we read or hear from those sources. Now that it is increasingly difficult to distinguish between a source of accurate information and opinion or misinformation, we are all in greater risk of believing and spreading falsehoods.

report that harassment has impacted their mental health, confidence, and sense of belonging in digital spaces. No one should feel unsafe for simply expressing themselves or participating in online communities.

Every voice matters. By standing together — raising awareness, supporting victims, and pushing for accountability — we can ensure that the internet remains a space of connection, creativity, and opportunity.

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