A series for dialogue and reflection
Journalists operate in a fast-paced, complex environment where decisions about what to report, and how, are sometimes made without having an opportunity to reflect about their impact, including choices surrounding the use of angles, sources, headlines, images and language.
These conditions led to interest from within the industry to collectively consider more deeply the implications of media reporting on society. In response, the Centre for Media Transition, First Draft Australia and the Australian Baha'i Community initiated a series of roundtable conversations for dialogue and reflection, as one approach in response to this need.
The roundtables sought to facilitate a sincere dialogue about the agency and civic responsibility of journalists to report free from racial, religious or ethnic prejudices, and the implications of media content on the social fabric of our society.
Drawing on Baha’i consultation as a means to facilitate these conversations, participants had the opportunity to respectfully exchange diverse experiences on the role of the media in an encouraging and dynamic environment.
Journalists, editors, academics as well as participants from civil society and faith communities came together for these conversations. They were hosted in an atmosphere characterized by respect, good faith, trust and an openness to listening and learning from one another.
In this context, we sought to bring together those thinking deeply about the future of journalism to offer their input and:
- Identify the positive values, principles and storylines that can be drawn on by the media to help shape and strengthen the social fabric of our society;
- Encourage and stimulate hopeful narratives and discussions amongst journalists interested in this space;
- Examine and advance thinking about the constructive role of the media as a social institution and its agency in contributing to social progress;
- Stimulate thinking about how reporting can enhance social cohesion.
These conversations were not an end in themselves. Participants were encouraged to test insights generated in the field of journalism so that ongoing reflection and analysis may occur in light of renewed experiences.
Journalists, media practitioners, academics and members of civil society are invited to draw on the resources gathered here to continue thinking about the constructive role of the media in society. In particular, to help unpack prevailing assumptions and advance thinking around the nexus between our shared humanity and the role of the media in society.
Baha’i World News Service featured these roundtables in their article, “Pandemic sparks critical reflection on journalism" and accompanying newsreel.
High level summaries, key learnings and concept notes for reach roundtable can be accessed below: