The intersection of journalism and International Religious Freedom is delicate, yet here lies untapped and an immense potential to amplify critical issues.
Yet often, International Religious Freedom (IRF) experts feel that journalists lack the nuanced understanding needed to capture their work accurately. Meanwhile, journalists might feel overwhelmed by the complexity of the issues presented—if they even know they are happening. Maximizing impact requires a collaborative approach in storytelling, shared mission, and mutual respect.
To bridge the gap from the side I know best (as a journalist), I spent some time discussing the matter with other journalists I know who are eager to tell IRF experts’ stories. These reporters are genuinely interested in understanding the expert’s mission and what gets in the way of that mission. They are also willing to ask tough questions like, “What do we often miss or get wrong about this situation?”
I’ve decided to share some of those findings in the next series of blogs I write for LYNC. In this blog, we’ll focus on establishing an ongoing relationship—something both parties are pretty good at.
The Role of Journalists as Storytellers
Journalists are not merely record-keepers of facts—they are storytellers who humanize complex realities. A straightforward account might highlight data about persecution rates or legislative changes when reporting on religious freedom issues. However, the message often falls flat without embedding these facts into a story that resonates with human experience.
Imagine a journalist covering a religious community forced to flee due to violent threats. Rather than just citing statistics, the story might center on a mother protecting her children while leaving everything behind. This storytelling approach doesn’t just inform—it compels readers to empathize and care.
We can harness the power of human interest stories to tell stories that resonate, cut through the noise, and make distant struggles feel personal and urgent. Human interest stories are not merely about reporting what happened but about understanding why it matters to real people.
Facts and data are essential, but they alone are insufficient to inspire action or lasting change. People need stories that make them pause and reflect. Human interest stories put a face to the issue, transforming cold statistics into tangible and relatable narratives.
Humans are naturally wired to connect with stories. They build emotional bonds that raw data alone cannot achieve. By investing in human interest stories, journalists and IRF experts can create narratives that not only inform, but also inspire. It’s about more than just reporting—it’s about giving a voice to the voiceless and ensuring their struggles are not forgotten.
Why Collaboration Matters
Religious freedom experts might hesitate to work with journalists who lack specific knowledge of the field. Yet partnering with experienced storytellers can enhance public understanding and foster broader support. When experts share real stories and personal accounts, journalists can craft narratives that resonate with diverse audiences.
Collaboration with experts also helps journalists distinguish between genuine cases of religious persecution and instances that might be exaggerated or misrepresented. In an age of increasingly prevalent misinformation, this kind of discernment is essential for maintaining accurate and ethical reporting.
To IRF Experts: Journalists Need a Little Grace
Journalists [generally] are not IRF experts. They are strong in their field, just as IRF experts are in theirs. Although many reporters will do their best to become an “expert” on the subject they cover, their ability to acquire such in-depth knowledge takes time. They may need experts to set the parameters for journalists to report accurately. For example, there are many sensitivities within and surrounding the IRF ecosystem, and good journalists will want to grasp the story and its complexities with integrity. One practical tip is to create a published set of guidelines for the terms you use, their definitions, and standard terms to avoid. Providing this will help journalists navigate the complexities of the IRF space while maintaining accuracy and respect.
Finding the Right Journalist for Your Story
Connecting with the proper journalist can mean distinguishing between a powerful story that resonates and a report that goes unnoticed.
Here are some ways to find the right storyteller:
- Research articles similar to your subject matter that you think the publication has treated well: Look for news organizations and independent journalists known for quality reporting and human interest stories.
- Leverage social media: Platforms like X (Twitter) and LinkedIn are excellent for finding journalists who regularly cover human rights and religious freedom. If you have an X premium account, you can set up lists to follow related to journalists in your interest.
- Network and build relationships: Attend events and connect with journalists even when you don’t have a specific story to pitch. Building rapport can make all the difference when you need coverage.
- Craft and share compelling press releases that journalists want in their inboxes:
Which brings us to . . .
If You Want Better Results, Rethink the Press Release
Most press releases are boring. They often lack a human element, reducing powerful stories to a few dry facts. The average press release provides a standard wall of introduction, followed by some statistics and a few quotes. Journalists receive countless press releases daily—so why should they pay attention to yours?
If they do pay attention, a tangible starting point will help them imagine a story angle. Think about the human interest angle. A local face creates a springboard for journalists to build the story—a face different from an expert or “suite-level” contact. Who is on the ground amidst the action? Provide a name (or a pseudonym for safety) and an example that makes the data come alive. Give reporters bricks to imagine building the structure. Journalists who are the right fit will work with you to build a narrative that humanizes the details and supports them with data, all while preserving the story’s sacred nature.
In the coming months, LYNC will build our storytelling initiative as we travel the globe. As we move forward, I will share some discoveries and examples of how we can craft human interest stories that inform, honor, and spur improvement.
About the Author
Jessica Eturralde is a journalist and the Communications Director for Love Your Neighbor Community (LYNC). As the host of both LYNC INTERVIEW and LYNC RADIO, she amplifies critical conversations on International Religious Freedom building and human rights. Her work has been featured in respected news outlets including WORLD, MinistryWatch, and Religion UnPlugged.
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