Page - 152 - in Media – Migration – Integration - European and North American Perspectives

Augie Fleras | Ethnic and Aboriginal Media in Canada 152 with society; to the other side, ethnic media provide a strong migrant identity for making the transition from there to here by fostering a more multilocal sense of belonging (Cheng 2005). Or as Madeleine Bunting (2007) writes in linking the bonding with the bridging: “A strong community identity gives them the confidence and the self-respect to establish themselves and get on.” (also Riggins 1992; Lam 1996). Of particular note is the provision of relevant information that minority women and men want but cannot readily access. Ethnic and aboriginal media offer an alternative to those mainstream newsmedia that many perceive as increasingly centralized, standardized, and preoccupied with the trivial or sensational. Myopic and distorted coverage of global issues because of mainstream newsvalues creates a pent-up demand for more accurate information that speaks to diasporic communities (Tan 2006; Karim 2006). As a clearinghouse of information, ethnic and aboriginal media not only draw attention to those stories that the mainstream glosses over. Issues are also framed in ways that impart a fresh perspective in a language that resonates with community members (Hsu 2002). In their role as bulletin boards for announcements of upcoming events governments often use ethnic and aboriginal media to convey information or change attitudes, while commercial interests rely on them to expand their market penetration (Wu 2005). The advocacy role played by populist media is no less critical. Aboriginal and ethnic media not only crusade for justice and equality, but also pose those awkward questions that mainstream media avoid for fear of censure or reprisals. In light of such a (dis)array of functions, reactions to ethnic and aboriginal media vary. For some, there is much to commend in processes that reflect the community, act as a political mouthpiece, foster a collective purpose, enhance group consciousness and sense of place, and create a sense of community consensus.1 For others, this advocacy commitment inspires a softer journalism 1 Consider, a proposed European Manifesto to support, recognize, and underline the importance of minority community (ethnic) media (Online/More Colour in the Media 2004 cited by Pat Cox). Below are select passages from the Manifesto. In the Manfesto, minority community media call upon the European Parliament, the European Commission and the Governments of member states: - to recognize the important role that minority community media play in Europe as actors to implement social inclusion policies - to see the minority media being recognized as a public community service that, as such, they will be contained in all European and national media legislation and will obtain a “must see” status on all relevant broadcast platforms - to ensure that freedom of speech, the right to receive information and the right to communicate for all, including the right for minorities to receive