Local Journalism Initiative Impact

The design and launch of the Community Media Portal has been funded by the Local Journalism Initiative (the LJI) of the Department of Canadian Heritage.

Under the LJI, over 100 journalists have been placed in underserved communities and asked to produce civic content that underpins Canadian democratic life.

On this page, LJI journalists share stories about the impact their content is having on the democratic life of their communities. If you would like to comment on a story you have seen on the Portal or on its impact, please Log In or Register for an account.

 

Activists applaud 'admirable' coverage of social justice issues

Moncton resident Lise Auffray says she has become a bit of an activist since retiring from her job as a school teacher. She's often present at demonstrations organized by the anti-poverty group NB ACORN, climate justice protests, or pro-Palestinian events calling for peace and justice in the Middle East.

David Gordon Koch – Local Journalism Initiative

Overcoming Employment Barriers for Immigrants in Canada: The Canadian Experience Dilemma.

In one of our most impactful pieces this quarter, Dapo Bankole, an African immigrant, shared his powerful journey of integrating into Canadian society, sparking widespread dialogue about the systemic barriers faced by skilled immigrants. His story, captured through a TEDx talk that went viral, with over 7,000 views on one of our platforms, has not only resonated with immigrants but also with local decision-makers and communities across Nova Scotia.

Gbenga Akintokun – Local Journalism Initiative

Amplifying Voices: The Impact of Emancipation Month Coverage on Community Awareness and Engagement.

The RPTV coverage of the Emancipation Month flag-raising ceremony, featuring Mayor Olivia Chow and Councillor Chris Moise, had a significant social impact on Toronto’s Black community and beyond. The video, which garnered 2,500 views on YouTube—a substantial reach—helped raise awareness of the ongoing fight against anti-Black racism and honoured the legacy of activists like Elder Louis March.

Dimitrije Martinovic – Local Journalism Initiative

Technology In the Classroom Unpacked by NACTV

If one thing has changed most in classrooms over the past decade or so, it’s the use of new technologies by students and educators. In its three-part series on technology in the classroom, NACTV shed light on the many ways technology has changed the way students are being educated, some of which were not at all what people might have been expecting. While many technologies were covered, including smartboards, drones, and even classroom lighting, it was personal devices that turned out to be in the hot seat.

Empowering Seniors: NACTV’s Seniors Update and HAND Collaboration

NACTV’s Seniors Update has evolved into more than just an informative television program; it has become a vital forum for seniors to engage with their elected officials. In partnership with Home Assistance Neepawa & District (HAND), a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting seniors and individuals with disabilities, this initiative addresses the pressing concerns of the senior community in the area.

Canada Still Sending Arms to Israel Despite 11 Months of Protests

For close to 11 months now, multiple protests have been held weekly demanding Canada to end its involvement in Israel's violence in Gaza and the West Bank. Despite political unrest, Canada and numerous companies continue to maintain ties to not just Israel but Israel's military.

Savanna Craig – Local Journalism Initiative

Alcool, drogue et distractions : les ennemis de la route

Au cours de l’été dernier, TVC22 a organisé en collaboration avec les services d’urgences de Prescott-Russell, une simulation d’un accident d’auto causée par la consommation de drogue et d’alcool. Ce qui ne devait être qu’une vidéo pour sensibiliser des conducteurs de la localité aux dangers de la conduite en état d’ébriété en est devenu bien plus.

Exploring Fisheries in BC: An In-Depth Interview with a Local Specialist

In the Farsi-speaking community, due to an interest in nature and hunting, the biggest issue is the lack of familiarity with hunting laws and the significant differences between the laws in Iran and Canada.

A fisherman might think he can fish in any lake and is unaware of the laws in BC. In this program, a sports coach thoroughly explains this matter. Broadcasting this program has familiarized newcomers with the hunting laws in Vancouver, and we have received several calls to answer their questions.

Creating Safe Spaces: Discussion on Sexual Violence in Diverse Groups

Violence against women and the LGBTQ community is often a taboo subject in Farsi-speaking communities. We hosted an open discussion seminar where audience members actively participated in conversations about the violence women face and the challenges confronting the LGBTQ community within our community.

The outcome was very positive, and we received numerous favorable comments. Most of viewers specifically emphasized the importance of continuing such programs, highlighting the need to address these taboo topics more openly among Farsi-speaking people.

The Record Episode 18

Telile partnered with other organizations on Isle Madame to help organize the 2024 Lieutenant-Governor’s Community Spirit Award presentation, held on August 31 at the D'Escousse Civic Improvement Hall.

Protection du territoire en Charlevoix : TVCO contribue à la diffusion d’une information vulgarisée et éclairante

Dans le cadre de la Conférence des Parties à la Convention des Nations Unies sur la diversité biologique qui s’est tenue à Montréal l’an dernier, le gouvernement du Québec s’est engagé à protéger 30% de son territoire continental et maritime d’ici 2030, alors que ce chiffre s’établit actuellement à 17%. Un appel à projets du ministère de l’Environnement a ainsi été lancé au printemps dernier pour que la population québécoise se prononce sur les territoires qui seraient d’intérêt à protéger dans l’ensemble des régions du sud de la province.

Geoff Scott, Executive Director Receives Prestigious Award June 2024

Geoff Scott receives an award from the Close Up Film Festival for his contributions to community television and his significant impact on countless lives in the community.

The mission of Close UP Film Festival:

We aim to support film makers, including young filmmakers, independent filmmakers, indigenous filmmakers, and Iranian filmmakers. The festival also aims to provide a close-up view of recent, creative, quality films to viewers in BC, Metro Vancouver, Canada and around the world.

Good Day from the Bay: CHCO-TV's Hit Show Engages Community and Breaks Viewership Records

"Good Day from the Bay" on CHCO-TV has been a hit with viewers, fostering a strong connection with the community by actively involving them in the show's programming. Hosts Jonathan Brittain and Vicki Hogarth have encouraged audience participation by inviting viewers to submit ideas and topics they want to see covered. This inclusive approach has resonated with the audience, making them feel directly involved in shaping the content of the show.

CHCO-TV's Coverage Highlights Limestone Boat Company's Impact on St. Stephen's Future

CHCO-TV's in-depth profile on the Limestone Boat Company through their "One-on-One" series has highlighted the transformative potential of local television in showcasing pivotal community stories. By providing an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the company's new facility in St. Stephen and exploring the intricate craftsmanship involved in their high-end recreational boats, CHCO-TV has brought widespread attention to this significant industrial initiative.

The Impact of LJI-Funded Civic Journalism: Strengthening Communities and Supporting Ukrainian Initiatives

The Local Journalism Initiative (LJI) has had a profound impact on our community, particularly through its support of civic journalism that addresses the diverse needs of our population. One notable example is how LJI-funded content has enabled the coverage and promotion of Ukrainian charity events across Canada. This support has not only highlighted important civic issues but also fostered dialogue, broken down barriers, and strengthened community bonds. 

Finalists Unveiled for 2023 Tri-Cities Chamber Business Awards

 

Established in 1971 by combining three separate Chambers in our region, the Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce is a not-for-profit organization incorporated under Canada’s Boards of Trade Act.

As the voice of business for the Tri-Cities, we represent organizations in Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody, and the Villages of Anmore and Belcarra, spanning a variety of industries, specialties, and interests. Our members include the community’s biggest employers, and small and medium-sized businesses, as well as non-profits, home-based entrepreneurs, and more.

Hard Hitting Report by Volunteer Helps Build Support for Local Journalism

Shelley Petit, chair of the NB Coalition of Persons with Disabilities, speaks outside the Legislative Assembly on June 24, 2024, as part of actions across Canada protesting the U.S. Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe. v. Wade two years earlier. Photo: Dora Szemok

In June, activists marched to the New Brunswick legislature in solidarity with Americans striving to reclaim autonomy over their bodies.

Creating Awareness on Inclusive Education through the Schooled! Episode “Inclusivity in the Classroom”

NACTV’s June episode of Schooled! entitled “Inclusivity in the Classroom provided an opportunity for Neepawa Middle School to share their best practice in creating an inclusive learning environment. While they have done their very best to provide all the resources they can to make sure that every student can participate in all school requirements and activities, some challenges still exist. there were still some challenges they mentioned.

Des partenariats qui permettent d’éduquer une plus grande partie de la population

L’émission réalisée sur la vie après une agression sexuelle et produite en partenariat avec Centre Novas Calacs francophone de Prescott-Russell ainsi que la station de radio GO FM (92.1) a eu des impacts positifs sur la communauté, notamment sur le plan de la sensibilisation et de l'éducation.

Dania Maisonneuve – Initiative de journalisme local

Discovering Community.

For this period I am including Gabriel Meissner's impact statement. Grabriel has been with Focus now for several years, at first as a placement student, and then and until now as both a part-time and full-time staff. By Gabreiel Meissner

Amplifying Legacy: An Immigrant Father's Journey of Fatherhood

The story of Tunde Awoyiga is not just one of personal triumph and dedication; it’s a narrative that underscores the broader impact of intentional fatherhood on a community. As a first-generation Canadian immigrant and father of two, Tunde’s journey from a student at Dalhousie University to a community leader highlights the power of cultural preservation, strong values, and hands-on parenting. His appearance on the Community Update channel has further amplified this positive impact, inspiring and empowering even more community members.

The Power of Collaboration: Raising Awareness about Victims and Survivors of Crime

At a seminar at the West Vancouver Library, we discussed the importance of community awareness and collaboration in addressing victimization in crime. We covered various types of abuse, including physical, emotional, financial, and sexual assault, and highlighted factors like social isolation and caregiver stress.

Emphasizing support for survivors and safer environments, we stressed that staying informed and united can help create a safer society.

Iranian-Canadian Community Reacts to Canada's Designation of IRGC as a Terrorist Organization

On June 19, 2024, the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental Affairs, announced that the Government of Canada has listed the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist entity under the Criminal Code, effective today.

We discussed this matter with social and political activists because this topic has always been a point of discussion in the Iranian community, and the Canadian government had avoided giving a clear response to this community for years.

Educating the Community: Strait Talk Episode 5

Working with the Marine Research Centre at the Petit de Grat campus of Universite Sainte-Anne, particularly Director Michelle Theriault, Telile TV was able to detail the renovations at the facility, demonstrate some of the tests they conducted and explain the reasons for the tests. We also did a brief overview of what occurs at the centre daily and what they contribute to the local fishing and aquaculture industries.

A video broadcast by TVC22 on the prevention of drunk driving sparked reactions in Clarence-Rockland

The recent broadcast of a report on the prevention of drunk driving by TVC22 provoked a significant reaction among the population.

Izabela Daszkiewicz - Local Journalism Initiative

A citizen contacted our editorial staff to express her appreciation of the show. She pointed out that at one time, announcements and awareness campaigns against driving under the influence of alcohol were more common. “With the legalization of marijuana and the addition of alcohol into the equation, people are not always, especially on rural back roads responsible,” she said.

Les Ouïghours commémorent le massacre de Ghulja devant le consulat chinois de Montréal

Une vingtaine de personnes se sont rassemblées devant le consulat chinois au centre-ville de Montréal pour appeler à l'action en faveur de la libération des Ouïghours dans la région autonome du nord-ouest de la Chine, Xingjiang. Les Ouïghours sont un groupe d'origine turque résidant depuis des siècles au Turkestan oriental, colonisé par la Chine en 1949, aujourd'hui connu sous le nom de Xinjiang.

Le tumulte de la suppression des ponts incite la communauté à contribuer à la programmation Telile et aux médias sociaux

PORT ROYAL - Une histoire qui changeait chaque jour - et dans certains cas, chaque heure - fin février, a montré le lien puissant entre les résidents de l'Isle Madame et la télévision communautaire Telile. La décision du ministère des Travaux publics de la Nouvelle-Écosse de supprimer le pont de Port Royal, un lien de transport de longue date pour plusieurs communautés de l'ouest de l'Isle Madame, a suscité la colère de plusieurs résidents locaux.

ClicPortneuf.TV's local journalism provides both sides of the coin in the Bastican-Neilson ZEC case

The local journalism of ClicPortneuf.tv has made a difference for users of the ZEC Batiscan-Neilson as well as all people involved in the issue of ZEC pricing in Quebec.

Chantale Lépine – Local Journalism Initiative

The authorities concerned had great difficulty making themselves heard by the users of the Zec Batiscan-Neilson who did not want pricing for the use of the territory. They wanted the status quo, but the government's Bill 19 required annual pricing.

As Rafah burns, Canada Dodges Gaza Refugee Questions

Canada unveiled the Special measures for extended family in Gaza on January 9, 2024. Through this temporary resident visa program, Gazans with family members who are either Canadian citizens or permanent residents can apply to come to Canada for up to three years. Not one applicant has been brought from Gaza to Canada under this program, prompting outrage from Canadians with family members in Gaza who are worried for the safety of their families.

Ombres numériques : dévoiler les méfaits cachés de la cyberintimidation

Notre entretien avec Honey Khadem, responsable de Houdini FX, abordant le sujet de la cyberintimidation, a profondément trouvé un écho auprès de notre public. La réponse a été particulièrement forte sur notre page Facebook. La conversation a mis en lumière l’importance de la vigilance et de l’intelligence dans la navigation sur les plateformes de médias sociaux.

Faire face à la dépendance : stratégies de reconnaissance et de soutien précoces

Le problème croissant de la toxicomanie à Vancouver a des répercussions sur un large éventail de communautés, entraînant une détresse considérable pour les familles qui voient leurs jeunes devenir victimes de drogues. Les écoles sont également aux prises avec des défis, car les étudiants sont de plus en plus confrontés à des offres de drogue sur le campus.

Vitrine de Moss Park Photo Story à la Rosedale Heights School of the Arts

Nous aimerions soumettre le "Photoreportage de Moss Park" comme l'un de nos articles d'impact couvert par le journaliste du LJI Fred Alvarado dans ses nouvelles hebdomadaires. C'est une histoire qui illustre l'implication communautaire à plusieurs niveaux et illustre l'importance d'avoir un journaliste local pour couvrir l'événement.

Concevoir la sécurité dans la communauté de Regent Park à Toronto

J'aimerais soumettre une déclaration d'impact d'un de nos étudiants coop, Lawrence Rodrigues. Je soumets le travail journalistique de Lawrence (rédaction de l'article et montage vidéo) comme exemple de la façon dont, dans le cas de cet étudiant coop travaillant avec RPTV, cela l'a influencé personnellement et comment il a pris conscience de l'impact plus large de l'Initiative de journalisme local.