Media Democracy Days: a view into the future of journalism

A decade ago, Media Democracy Day sprung to the Vancouver cultural scene to respond to what many citizens felt was a growing problem: the rapid media concentration in Canada, and the diverse voices that get lost in the process. Citizens, researchers, academics, and activists organized the one-day event to raise awareness of what was happening behind the scenes of Canada's media landscape. 

Since then, the event has evolved into a well-known forum for issues related to media: civic engagement, technology, Aboriginal media, and policy. Featuring publications like The Tyee, Rabble, The Vancouver Observer and Adbusters, the now multi-day event gives people a chance to get updated on key issues affecting media today.  

This year, Media Democracy Days is hosting a series of panels on issues including diversity, unions and public opinion, and aboriginal voices. A highlight of the event is “The Future of Journalism: Crisis and Opportunities” (Saturday, Nov. 12), which discusses how journalism has changed in recent years to integrate social media, blogs and citizen journalism.

The panel discussion will by moderated by The Vancouver Observer founder and editor-in-chief Linda Solomon. Speakers include:

• David Beers, founding editor of The Tyee
• Peter Klein, contributing editor to CBS’ News 60 Minutes and Director of UBC’s Graduate School of Journalism 
• Charlie Smith, editor of the Georgia Straight
• Karen Pinchin, founding editor of OpenFile Vancouver.

The discussions are taking place on Saturday, November 12^th from 12-5pm at the Vancouver Public Library, and is part of the 3-day Media Democracy Days program, which includes a film screening and a talk by Dr. Sut Jhally on Friday, November 11, and interactive workshops on Sunday, November 13. For more information, see the Media Democracy Days website.