Overcoming the new kids on the block syndrome: the media ‘endorsement’ on discrimination against African-Australians

Abstract

Negative news reporting in Australia about African immigrants is of concern to them. It has real impacts on their everyday lives, ranging from discriminatory treatment by police to difficulties in gaining employment. This paper analyses interviews with eleven African immigrants and their views on negative news reporting about them. Participants argue that negative news reporting creates a barrier between African-Australians and other Australians. Negative news reporting also has the effect of endorsing the public’s already discriminatory and unfavourable attitudes towards African immigrants. African migrants have started working within the African community in order to educate its members about Australian cultures. They are also mobilized to unite under the Organisation of African Unity and distribute positive stories of African-Australians, utilizing African community media outlets. They have noticed some positive changes happening in the last few years, e.g. better treatment of Africans by police officers and an improving chance of employment. Regular African gatherings also attract a good number of the ‘Australian’ public.