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CBC
05-07-2025
- General
- CBC
Budding journalists from Kahnawà:ke share stories from their community
These stories are a collaboration between Concordia University's journalism department, Kahnawake Survival School and CBC Montreal. For the second year in a row, CBC Montreal is proud to support a partnership between Concordia University's journalism department and Kahnawake Survival School (KSS). The initiative aims to inspire Indigenous students to consider a career in media. The collaboration comes out of the university department's Institute for Inclusive, Investigative and Innovative Journalism, which is headed by Concordia's journalist-in-residence and former CBC Montreal radio news anchor Kristy Snell. Journalism students at the university mentored graduates from KSS as they developed story ideas, interviewed subjects and produced videos about people in their community. CBC Montreal gave their finished stories a home on and on the television newscast. Multipurpose community centre Construction of Kahnawà:ke's new multipurpose building is almost complete. The centre will accommodate several community groups, and project members are hoping it will also help boost tourism in the community. This story was produced by Kahnawake Survival School reporter Ranonkwatsheronkwen Abraira with the assistance of Concordia mentor Jared Lackman-Mincoff. Construction of Kahnawà:ke's new multi-purpose building is almost complete 8 hours ago Duration 2:33 This story is a collaboration between Concordia University's journalism department, Kahnawake Survival School and CBC Montreal. Importance of beadwork in Kahnawà:ke In Kahnawà:ke, beadwork helps connect many people to their culture. Kahnawake Survival School reporter Aleisha Diabo spoke with two well-known beaders in the community to find out more. She was assisted by Concordia mentor Chantal Bellefeuille. Importance of beadwork in Kahnawà:ke 8 hours ago Duration 1:38 Passing on Kanien'kéha Kahnawake Survival School reporter Tekaweientehtáhkwen Diabo spoke with Kahnawà:ke's Kanáhne Rice about how teaching her young daughter to speak Kanien'kéha has been a healing experience. Emily Pasquarelli was Tekaweientehtáhkwen's mentor from Concordia. Passing on Kanien'kéha 8 hours ago Duration 2:11 Kahnawà:ke's Kanáhne Rice says teaching her young daughter to speak Kanien'kéha has been a healing experience. This story is a collaboration between Concordia University's journalism department, Kahnawake Survival School and CBC Montreal. Meet the KSS reporters CBC Montreal reporter Matt D'Amours spoke to the Kahnawake Survival School reporters about what it means for them to be able to share stories from their community. He served as a consultant for this project. Meet the KSS reporters 8 hours ago Duration 2:20
SBS Australia
24-06-2025
- General
- SBS Australia
First Nations representation in media: What's changing, why it matters
Media has historically stereotyped and excluded Indigenous voices, shaping public understanding without Indigenous perspectives. Indigenous media empowers voices, preserves culture, and challenges stereotypes. Social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram amplify Indigenous storytelling. Historically, media portrayals of Indigenous Australians were deeply flawed. Early newspapers, radio, and television often depicted Indigenous people as lesser or flawed, profoundly shaping public perceptions. "When I was younger, there wasn't much representation of mob in media. Now we're breaking barriers and celebrating Blak excellence—it's incredible to see Indigenous voices being heard internationally," Leanne Djilandi Dolby says. She is a proud Noongar, Yamatji Naaguja Nunda woman on her mother's side, and Yawuru, Gija, and Gooniyandi on her father's side. Adam Manovic, Kabi Kabi, Gorreng Gorreng man, Co-Chair of First Nations Media Australia ( FNMA ), Head of Commercial, Brand and Digital at National Indigenous Television (NITV) and member of The First Nations Digital Inclusion Advisory Group , explains that these portrayals have long-term consequences. "Media has a massive influence on how people view things, dating back to newspapers and radio in the early 1900s. This has shaped how Indigenous Australians are seen by non-Indigenous Australians, often perpetuating false negative stereotypes," Mr Manovic explains. Recent studies show that only nine per cent of Indigenous Australians believe the media provides a balanced view of their communities. Left: Tanja Hirvonen. Centre: Adam Manovic. Right: Leanne Djilandi Dolby What are the systemic barriers? Despite progress, systemic barriers persist for Indigenous-led media organisations like FNMA. Underfunding and outdated infrastructure limit their reach. Meanwhile, mainstream media often avoids negative stereotypes but fails to include deeper cultural contexts or authentic Indigenous voices. Adam Manovic stresses that empowering First Nations people to control their own narratives is key to overcoming these challenges. The role of Indigenous media Indigenous platforms like FNMA and NITV are critical for reclaiming narratives and challenging stereotypes. FNMA supports over 500 employees across Australia and offers training for First Nations people to enter the media industry. NITV, launched in 2007 and now part of the SBS since 2012, serves as a platform for authentic storytelling by and about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Adam Manovic advocates for government support through a First Nations Broadcasting Act to ensure sustainable funding for these initiatives. "Preserving First Nations media archives is vital because it maintains language and culture for future generations. We want to ensure these recordings don't disappear—they're integral to who we are," he says. These platforms challenge stereotypes, foster cultural pride, and provide authentic storytelling that reflects the realities of Indigenous communities. First Nations hub of inner knowledge, traditional culture and lore. How does media representation affect Indigenous Australians? Media representation plays a significant role in shaping identity and self-esteem among Indigenous Australians. Historically, harmful portrayals reinforced systemic racism and negative stereotypes. "When the media perpetuates harmful stereotypes or spreads inaccurate content, it reinforces racism and discrimination on a larger scale. For people who are already struggling, seeing these narratives can be deeply distressing." However, positive media representation offers huge benefits. Research shows that inclusive and authentic portrayals of Indigenous peoples can foster cultural pride, strengthen community connections, and improve life outcomes. For example, the National Agreement on Closing the Gap highlights the importance of Indigenous representation in media as a way to reduce experiences of racism and improve access to information for informed decision-making. Positive representation also helps challenge uneducated reporting. When Indigenous voices are included in storytelling—whether through platforms like NITV or social media—it promotes understanding and respect among non-Indigenous Australians. This shift can lead to greater support for reconciliation efforts. Leanne Dolby, social media creator and biomedical science student, emphasises the empowering effects of seeing yourself represented in media. "When you don't see enough representation as an Aboriginal person, you feel isolated. Representation means knowing there are people like me who have the same goals and strength,"Djilandi Dolby explains. By prioritising authentic storytelling and empowering Indigenous voices, media has the potential to not only heal past wounds but also build a more inclusive future for all Australians. "Our [Indigenous Australians] strength lies in our cultural resilience. By celebrating our traditions, language, and stories through media, we can counteract the negative impacts of harmful narratives," Tanja Hirvonen says. Social media has proven to have the power that enables First Nations people to challenge misinformation. Credit: davidf/Getty Images Social Media as a Tool for Change Social media has emerged as a transformative platform for Indigenous Australians. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook allow creators to bypass traditional media and share their stories directly with global audiences. This power enables First Nations people to challenge misinformation while fostering cultural exchange. Hashtags such as #IndigenousX have become hubs for advocacy and education. "Social media platforms will come and go, but what will never change is our ability to tell stories. Whether it's TikTok, film, radio, or print, we know how to use those platforms to our advantage to show our culture," Adam Manovic explains. What Does the Future Hold? Improving representation requires systemic changes across both mainstream and community-controlled media sectors. This means not only creating space for Indigenous voices but also supporting long-term changes in how stories are chosen, told, and shared. Adam Manovic calls for legislation like a First Nations Broadcasting Act to secure funding for Indigenous-led platforms such as FNMA and NITV. Tanja Hirvonen highlights the need for culturally safe practices within mainstream media organisations—ensuring fair portrayals by involving Indigenous voices at every level. Leanne Djilandi Dolby urges greater celebration of Indigenous success across all forms of media: "We need more opportunities for mob to share their stories—whether it's through film festivals or social platforms—and more support for those breaking into creative industries." The portrayal of Indigenous Australians in media is evolving but remains a work in progress. While platforms like NITV and social media offer hope through authentic storytelling, mainstream outlets must move beyond token gestures to genuinely reflect the richness of Australia's diversity. Empowering First Nations voices enriches Australia's cultural landscape while strengthening understanding between communities. As Adam Manovic emphasises, the positive contributions of Indigenous Australians to media and culture are 'for everyone to embrace'. Subscribe to or follow the Australia Explained podcast for more valuable information and tips about settling into your new life in Australia. Do you have any questions or topic ideas? Send us an email to australiaexplained@
