Description:

In most western democratic societies, immigration and diversity issues are extensively covered by the media. The coverage accorded to these issues has a strong impact on both the tenor of public debate and public opinion about immigration and diversity policies. Accordingly, governments and organizations of civil society pay close attention to how the media covers these issues. This is especially true as stories break in times of crisis.

Whether in the wake of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 or following the arrival of a boatload of refugee claimants, the media has pre-eminence in shaping opinions until other sources of information are brought to the attention of the public. Some have argued that the fourth estate has discharged its responsibilities fairly and equitably while bringing key information to light. Critics, however, contend that the media has often fanned the flames of intolerance and thereby failed to live up to its civic responsibilities.

This panel of experts from Canada, Italy, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom will explore specific case studies of the media's role in moments of crisis related to immigration and diversity. Each will address how the media shaped public opinion during, and immediately following, a specific incident. With an emphasis on best practices that may be applicable in the future, presenters will then consider how other sources of information like civil society organizations and governments sought to contribute to informing the public debate through the media and other approaches.

Presenters:
Giovanna Campani, University of Florence (ITALY)
John Gabriel, London Metropolitan University (UNITED KINGDOM)
Alison Mountz, Syracuse University (UNITED STATES)
Paul Spoonley, Massey University (NEW ZEALAND)

Discussants:
Andrew Cardozo, Public Policy Analyst / Former CRTC Commissioner
Anna Chiappa, Canadian Ethnocultural Council
Hamlin Grange, ProMedia International
Jean L. Kunz, Policy Research Initiative
Raj Rasalingam, Pearson-Shoyama Institute / Canadian Association of Broadcasters' Task Force for Cultural Diversity on Television

Supported by:
Strategic Directions and Communications, Citizenship and Immigration Canada
Multiculturalism Program, Canadian Heritage
Pearson-Shoyama Institute