MDA | Race Reporting Handbook
1. News Values and Their
Colonial Implications:
•
•
•
language groups, Elders, and the
by colonial biases (e.g., unequal
creating and delivering content.
history of the land where you are
prominence and proximity are shaped
•
incorporate the unique cultural
Acknowledge that stories often cater
your work.
perspectives and experiences into
domestic violence or death).
to an Anglo-Australian audience,
•
Ensure that First Nations peoples are
influencing which communities receive
actively involved in the creation and
Strive to include diverse perspectives
traditions and knowledge.
coverage.
review of content to respect their
to reflect Australia's true demographic
Extend your learning here with the
MDA Reporting on Aboriginal and
Torres Strait Islander Peoples and
Issues.
groups.
Media organisations can build or
regain trust with First Nations and other
negatively racialised groups by adopting
this inclusive approach to strengthen
relationships with marginalised
communities and potentially shift the
dominant audience demographics.
2. Respectful Representation
of the languages of First
Nations and other negatively
racialised communities:
•
Acknowledge and, with consent,
women especially in relation to
and build trust with marginalised
•
Educate yourself on local First Nations
Reflect on how news values like
coverage of Indigenous vs. Anglo
•
WHEN REPORTING ON ISSUES RELATED
TO FIRST NATIONS PEOPLES:
Be aware of various international
Indigenous Nations and other
negatively racialised communities,
who might consume your content.
Ensure that while creating content you
engage with communities to ensure
that you do not exclude or erase their
respective histories and languages.
See Chapter 5.
Include and avoid discriminating
against talent with English as their
second language.
| CHAPTER 01
WHEN REPORTING ON ISSUES RELATED
TO NON-INDIGENOUS NEGATIVELY
RACIALISED COMMUNITIES:
•
Learn about the language groups,
cultural contexts, and histories of other
negatively racialised communities
•
where relevant.
Engage with community
representatives and experts to
ensure accurate and respectful
•
representation.
Understand the migration or refugee
experience by considering the
socio-political context, reasons
for displacement, resettlement
challenges, and relevant policies. Find
opportunities to focus on celebrating
their achievements, strengths, and
contributions to the community, rather
than solely highlighting struggles.
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