•
•
that portray criminal activity as an
ethnic trait and prevent moral panic
and the stigmatisation of certain
racialised groups.
Highlight solutions and positive
actions being taken within the affected
communities to provide a broader
perspective and counteract negative
stereotypes. This approach fosters
a more balanced and accurate
narrative, avoids reinforcing harmful
perceptions, and supports more
meaningful and solution-focused
public discussions.
Use neutral language, such as
"Community Initiatives Aim to Combat
Alcoholism," to platform existing
•
community efforts and highlight
actions being taken, rather than
attributing blame to particular
communities affected by systemic
inequity.
Avoid reproducing or giving salience
to phrases spoken by politicians
or other figures that encourage
stigmatisation without providing
significant context.
EXAMPLE: Authorities referring
to people seeking asylum
and refugees as criminals will
perpetuate harmful stereotypes
and overlook the complexities of
individual cases.
Passive and Active Language in Reporting
•
Be aware of how passive and active language choices can shape narratives
and influence public perception. For example, passive language often avoids
placing accountability on specific persons, which can obscure the causes and
implications of an event.
Example of passive headline:
"Shots Fired in Protests"
(obscures who fired the shots).
Example of active headline:
"Police Fire Shots in Protests"
(clearly states who fired the shots).
Active language
creates transparency
and accountability
in reporting,
and helps to prevent the
perpetuation of inaccurate
or harmful narratives.
WHAT’S YOUR BIAS?
While there are some limitations to the Implicit Association Test, it can be a useful
tool, when used in conjunction with other practical measures to proactively
consider your own bias.
Take this test to find out: Harvard University Implicit Association Test
| CHAPTER 01
19