Membership Terms

By joining the Organization of News Ombuds and Standards Editors (“ONO)” or “Organization”), members agree to comply with and be bound by these Terms of Service (“TOS”). ONO reserves the right to modify these TOS at any time without prior notice.

Continued membership after changes indicates acceptance of the new terms.

Eligibility for Membership

Membership is open to individuals and organizations dedicated to upholding ethical standards, transparency, and accountability in journalism. Eligible members may include news ombuds, standards editors, and professionals committed to the principles outlined by ONO. ONO reserves the right to determine eligibility on a case-by-case basis.

Membership Rights and Benefits

• Access to Resources: Members receive access to ONO’s resources, including guidelines, research, and best practices for journalistic ethics.
• Professional Networking: Members gain entry to a network of like-minded professionals, forums, and events organized by ONO.
• Participation in Events and Programs: Members are eligible to participate in workshops, conferences, and programs sponsored or hosted by ONO.
• Voting Rights: Where applicable, members may have voting rights on organizational matters, including board elections or other key decisions.
• Membership Obligations

Members agree to:

• Uphold Ethical Standards: Members are expected to uphold the ethical guidelines and principles of journalistic integrity, transparency, and accountability.
• Engage Respectfully: Members should interact with each other and ONO staff in a respectful and constructive manner, fostering a collaborative and professional community.
• Maintain Confidentiality: Members must maintain confidentiality regarding any proprietary information, discussions, or shared resources unless otherwise specified.
• Fees and Payment

Membership Fees 

ONO may charge annual membership fees, which will be communicated clearly at the time of application or renewal.

Payment Terms

Fees must be paid in full upon acceptance of membership and at the time of renewal. Failure to pay fees may result in suspension or termination of membership.

Conduct and Grounds for Termination

ONO reserves the right to suspend or terminate membership for conduct inconsistent with the organization’s values, including but not limited to:

• Violation of Ethical Standards: Actions that contradict ONO’s commitment to ethical journalism.
• Misuse of Membership Resources: Unauthorized use, duplication, or distribution of ONO’s proprietary resources or materials.
• Disruptive Behavior: Engaging in disruptive or disrespectful behavior within ONO forums, events, or towards other members.

Membership Termination

• Voluntary Termination: Members may terminate their membership at any time by notifying ONO in writing.
• Involuntary Termination: ONO reserves the right to terminate or suspend a member’s membership at its discretion for violations of this TOS or actions detrimental to the Organization’s mission.

Intellectual Property

All materials, resources, and publications provided by ONO are the property of ONO. Members may use these materials only for personal or professional development, adhering to the Organization’s guidelines for usage.

Disclaimer of Liability

ONO disclaims all liability for actions taken by its members or for any damages arising from membership participation. Members agree to hold ONO harmless from any claims, damages, or liabilities that may arise from their involvement in the organization.

Governing Law

These Terms of Service are governed by the laws of Pima County, Arizona, United States of America, and any disputes arising from these terms shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts in Pima County, Arizona, United States of America.

Contact Information

For questions or concerns regarding these Terms of Service, members may contact ONO at: 

Organization of News Ombuds and Standards Editors (ONO)
privacy@newsombuds.org
17905 S Camino Confianza
Sahuarita, AZ 85629
United States

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