As Philadelphia approaches 2026, conversations about public safety are shifting, and so is the responsibility of the media. We spoke with Eric Marsh Sr., Director of Operations at the Philadelphia Center for Gun Violence Reporting, to continue a discussion first introduced earlier this year on how to report on gun violence as the data changes responsibly, but public fear remains.
Philadelphia has seen a documented decline in gun violence, yet many residents still feel unsafe. Marsh emphasized that data alone doesn’t shape perception media framing does. While shootings and homicides still occur, nonstop breaking news alerts and sensational headlines can overshadow real progress, affecting mental health, neighborhood morale, and how outsiders view the city.
At the core of the conversation was a balance with the core of the conversation, focusing on journalistic improvements without erasing the pain of victims, survivors, and impacted communities.
We also explored how constant exposure to crime coverage impacts the environment people live in, not just physically, but emotionally. When communities are only portrayed through violence, it affects investment, tourism, and self-perception.
Looking ahead to the nation’s 250th anniversary and increased global attention, Marsh challenged media outlets to adopt solutions focused journalism. That means highlighting prevention, intervention, and community-led responses alongside accountability.
Ultimately, the question isn’t just whether reporting is accurate but whether it’s effective. Is it informing the public, or unintentionally contributing to fear? As Philadelphia enters a new year, how we tell the story matters just as much as the numbers themselves.