International Fact-Checking Day
Make sure information is accurate and reliable — always double-check sources and question things that sound too good to be true!
Longing for the truth in information? Then you are not alone! International Fact-Checking Day is here to encourage people all over the planet to combat misinformation or disinformation and proclaim the truth that is actually based on real facts.
The rallying cry, “Fact-Checking is Essential”, is the theme of this day that is celebrated annually, but should truly be part of each person’s responsibility on every day of the year.
History of International Fact-Checking Day
Established by the International Fact-Checking Network, this day is part of a larger effort for organizations all around the globe to be sure to present the truth in the information they provide to the people of the world. Journalists, educators, politicians, governments, health-care workers, advertisers and even average citizens should all be held accountable to be sure that the information they share is truthful and correct.
With the belief that Fact-Checking isn’t only the job of professional debunkers but myths and falsities should be called out by everyone, the spirit of International Fact-Checking Day is that everyone has the responsibility to be involved!
How to Celebrate International Fact-Checking Day
Gaining the truth behind information and stories is vital for living in a healthy and effective way on the planet. Try out some of these ideas for celebrating and enjoying International Fact-Checking Day:
Practice Fact-Checking
Individuals and families can exercise their rights and responsibilities to stay informed by practicing their own Fact-Checking. Instead of allowing misinformation to sway opinions, decisions, conversations and even votes, it is vital for folks to know where their information came from. All it takes is a few simple keystrokes online. Just like in school when teachers required students to check their sources, this practice can move forward into everyday life!
Take a Fact-Checking Quiz
In honor of International Fact-Checking Day, dare to take a quiz that will help reveal how much fake news or misinformation you may have succumbed to. Check out the quiz at the International Fact-Checking Network Website.
Look at Source Credibility
Everyone should be sure to keep up with the truth of their shared information in honor of International Fact-Checking Day. In addition to offering credentials of the authority providing the info, here are some key elements in making sure a source is legitimate and truthful:
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Objectivity
A website should be clear about how much objectivity it has, if it has been paid by a sponsor and other information on its About page.
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Accuracy
A website that offers statistics and facts should provide resources such as studies, papers or journals to back up its facts.
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Coverage
Be sure a website has external coverage to back up its claims, not just within its own page but from outside sources. This information should also be timely.
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Purpose
Websites should be clear about why they are offering this information, if they have an agenda or what they are trying to accomplish.
