The Examination, a sponsored project of Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors

Reporting that makes a difference

The Examination was founded with the understanding that the people of the world do not experience health crises equally, with tens of millions of preventable deaths and illnesses disproportionately concentrated in marginalized communities that can least bear the cost. Our reporting seeks to define, describe and even begin to close this inequity gap, exposing those most responsible — and elevating the voices of those most harmed.

Industries with direct roles in damaging the health of communities will be the primary focus at the outset. The Examination will also explore the ways these entities manipulate rules and regulations to their benefit, market their products and whitewash the harms they cause.

Why we exist: health inequity on a global scale

People in poor communities die younger than those who live in more prosperous ones. They are more likely to drink tainted water, breathe dirty air and live on poisoned land. They are more vulnerable to diseases caused by polluting industries, from plastics to coal to big agriculture. They are more likely to subsist on high-sugar, low-nutrition diets; and they are more likely to be a target of marketing campaigns touting dangerous products.

The toll of this health inequity crisis, in human terms, is immense. Millions die each year from preventable diseases; vast numbers more suffer short and long-term health damage, from cancer to asthma, emphysema, diabetes and other debilitating maladies. Sicknesses linger for years, even decades, weakening families and bankrupting household budgets. At the national level, trillions of dollars that could fund roads or education instead pay for environmental cleanup or caring for the ill.

There is a critical lack of reporting that addresses these crises. Our journalism seeks to fill the information and accountability gap.

Who we are

The Examination will be led by experienced journalists who have seen firsthand the power of investigative reporting to right wrongs and change lives.

We are fully remote, but also aware of the challenges that face a distributed news team. The team will meet in person as often as is feasible and seek to find other ways to build relationships and foster a positive workplace culture.

We need help to meet our ambitious goals and are hiring for positions across our growing virtual newsroom.