The South African Civil Society Information Service
A nonprofit news agency promoting social justice. Seeking answers to the question:
How do we make democracy work for the poor?
A nonprofit news agency promoting social justice. Seeking answers to the question:
How do we make democracy work for the poor?
Fazila Farouk -
Is the media from Mars and are social justice activists from Venus? If this question were put to me a year ago when the South African Civil Society Information Service (SACSIS) was launched, I probably would have answered, "yes" without hesitation.
However, having spent a year trying to purposefully influence a social justice agenda in the media, the answer to that question has become less clear-cut.
Consider the following titles: "Markets Follow Money and Nothing...
Democracy Now -
American President George W. Bush held his final news conference this past week. Bush fervently defended his record, saying he made the nation safer following the 9/11 attacks, rejected the idea that the nation’s moral standing has been damaged over the past eight years and defended the government’s response to Hurricane Katrina.
Amy Goodman speaks with veteran White House correspondent Helen Thomas. She’s the most senior member of the White House press corps and has...
Fazila Farouk -
With the Israeli military offensive on Gaza approaching a fortnight of blood soaked bombardment, signs are beginning to emerge that a ceasefire is imminent. Its been said that it will take a few days to hammer out a peace settlement. Until a settlement is reached, Israel continues its attack on Gaza.
Believing that she holds the moral high ground in this conflict, Israel has made many claims professing her innocence and honourable intentions.
The well-rehearsed mantra repeated by...
Many are wondering if the media are providing a clear analysis of critical voices. This clip examines the impact of new technology on the role of the traditional news gatherer, featuring comments from both mainstream and progressive media figures, such as former president of CNN, Chris Cramer and on the other end of the spectrum, Danny Schechter.
Glenn Ashton -
The recent resignation of the editor of the Cape Times, Tyrone August, over what appears to be executive interference in the traditional structures of local newspapers, should set alarm bells ringing. His departure was evidently triggered by a shift towards the concentration of editing duties in a centralised base. This would appear to be an unhealthy move if we are to foster an open, diverse and free media in South Africa. August has been true to his name and has steered a vibrant newspaper...
Al Jazeera English is fighting to stay on the airwaves in America highlighting the broader struggles for free speech and media diversity. In the American City of Burlington, Al Jazeera is being accused of hate mongering towards Americans and Israeli's. The Israeli Centre of Vermont wants Al Jazeera banned for being anti-semetic. Ironically, Al Jazeera is aired in Israel without objection. The Burlington local authority has held public hearings to discuss the issue and will decide in a...
