From exposing corruption in international adoption to delving into the culture of the U.S. Border Patrol, Erin Siegal McIntyre’s investigative journalism unveils the truth behind complex issues.
In the world of journalism, there are those who report the news and those who go beyond the surface to uncover hidden truths. Erin Siegal McIntyre, an investigative journalist and assistant professor at the UNC Hussman School of Journalism and Media, falls into the latter category. From her early days as a freelance photojournalist to her current work as a writer and researcher, Siegal McIntyre has dedicated her career to shedding light on stories that have not yet been told. This article explores her journey, from her first foray into investigative reporting to her current project on the culture of the U.S. Border Patrol.
A Journey into Investigative Journalism
Siegal McIntyre’s path to investigative journalism began with a realization at an airport terminal in Guatemala. While surrounded by American citizens leaving the country with newly adopted Guatemalan children, she became aware of a darker side to international adoption. This revelation propelled her into a new direction, away from superficial stories, and towards investigative reporting. Her first major project, which uncovered kidnappings, baby laundering, and corruption in international adoption between the U.S. and Guatemala, became the foundation for her career as an investigative journalist.
Challenging the Status Quo
Siegal McIntyre’s thirst for intellectual challenge led her to drop out of art school and pursue a dual-degree major in writing and photography at the Parsons School of Design. Her freelance career took off quickly, with assignments from renowned news organizations such as Reuters and The New York Times. However, she still felt a desire to dig deeper into stories. This led her to the master’s program at the Columbia Journalism School, where she focused on investigative reporting. Her research into the legislative history of international adoption between Guatemala and the United States revealed a complex web of individuals involved in fraudulent practices. Through her book “Finding Fernanda,” she exposed criminal networks and shed light on the truth behind international adoption.
Uncovering the Border’s Secrets
In 2010, Siegal McIntyre moved to Tijuana, Mexico, where she immersed herself in the border city’s culture and began reporting on immigration, deportation, and policy. Her experiences on the border sparked her interest in the institutional culture of the U.S. Border Patrol. Currently working on her second book, Siegal McIntyre aims to explore the evolution of the agency’s culture over the past 50 years. Unlike her previous book, this project delves into a broad range of experiences within the Border Patrol, highlighting both the heroic and problematic aspects of the organization.
The Power of Investigative Reporting
Siegal McIntyre’s work goes beyond traditional journalism, incorporating photography as a tool to capture details that enhance her written descriptions. Her investigative reporting often involves accessing previously unreleased public information and datasets from government agencies. Through the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), she has obtained valuable documents that contribute to her research. By combining first-hand accounts with government documents, she aims to paint a comprehensive picture of the Border Patrol’s culture.
Conclusion:
Erin Siegal McIntyre’s journey as an investigative journalist has been marked by a commitment to uncovering hidden stories and holding those in power accountable. From exposing corruption in international adoption to delving into the culture of the U.S. Border Patrol, her work sheds light on complex issues that would otherwise remain in the shadows. Through her teaching at the UNC Hussman School of Journalism and Media, she empowers the next generation of journalists to follow in her footsteps. As she continues her research and reporting, Siegal McIntyre reminds us of the power of investigative journalism to bring about change and create a more informed society.
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