Journalism schools add programs, change curricula to better inform journalists on Indigenous issues

Kwantlen Polytechnic University has announced that its journalism program will now require all students to take an introductory Indigenous course. Set to launch in Spring 2017, the course focuses on the histories, cultures, and contemporary situation of Indigenous peoples in Canada and the US, incorporating teachings and perspectives from band elders and local communities. At Ryerson University, Rogers Visiting Journalist Duncan McCue states that he will be assisting the Ryerson School of Journalism in curriculum revisions and will work with instructors on developing new approaches for reporting on stories that involve Indigenous communities. “I would suggest that the impact of repeating stereotypes and misrepresentations in the mainstream media about cultural groups—in my case, Indigenous groups—is every bit as harmful as some of those dire situations that police and health workers face,” explained McCue, a member of the Chippewas of Georgina Island First Nation. “So, it’s important that we as journalists have a cultural baseline when it comes to the communities we serve.” J-Source (Ryerson) | Runner Mag (KPU)