By: Emily Lewis
BYU sponsored the second Mormon Media Symposium on Thursday and Friday, where professors and speakers from across the country gathered to speak on Mormon moments in the media.
One panel of media professionals, Dr. John Hughes, BYU; Allison Pond, Desert News; Peggy Fletcher Stack, Salt Lake Tribune; and Dr. Bill Siliock, ASU; addressed the question “How does truth still prevail?”
The speakers spoke about media within their specific professional realm. Pond did survey research among Mormons on how they felt about a Mormon running for United States president. Fifty-four percent believed that Mormonism in the media hurt perception of religion and that there was a shift in the way Mormons were talked about. Pond’s overall message was that Mormons are good at bonding but not at building bridges—meaning Mormons are friends with Mormons.
Hughes, former editor of the Desert News, explained President Gordon B. Hinckley’s call to have the newspaper reach all religions and all people. Because of this, Desert News began asking other religions leaders what they thought should be in the paper. As a result of this, there is now a Religion and Ethics section of the newspaper.
Hughes mentioned another facet of Mormonism in the media, the Book of Mormon musical. Although this musical is highly offense to Church members, the publicity has been favorable for the Church. Hughes cautioned that social-media-saints should be cautious about out-coming reports. Instead of being the first to release information, it is better to be second and right.
Stack briefly spoke on the Church and how it has dealt with other journalists and interviews while Romney was campaigning for president. Ultimately, the Church has been very firm and civil when it comes to public relations.
Unfortunately, there have been moments when a member of the Quorum of the Twelve has been attacked with questions regarding the temple when that subject was not part of the agreed-upon interview.
Stack said that journalists have made many mistakes because of the Mormon moment, but they have also used restraint, showing a respect that the Church appreciates.
