I am not the problem : challenging deficit narratives of indigenous development through alternative media : a research report presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of International Development, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
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Date
2016
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Abstract
The aim of this research was to explore the extent to which alternative media
sources challenge normative representations of Indigenous peoples and provide an
opportunity for alternate representations, specifically expressions of agency and
empowerment. Mainstream media oversimplifies Indigenous development goals and
relies heavily upon stereotypes and problematising discourses. Critical analysis of
alternative news articles show that alternative media represents issues related to
Indigenous development from a collective perspective, demonstrating a strong presence
of solidarity. Contestation of problematising discourses is commonly situated in a context
of colonisation and ongoing marginalisation and through this narrative stories of agency
and empowerment are shared. Overwhelmingly, there was evidence that Indigenous
development was not being undertaken in a participatory approach, the state failing to
consult and instead enforcing paternalistic and punitive policies specifically targeting
Indigenous communities. A key finding of this research is that alternative media provides
a voice for those silenced by state processes and policies, disseminating urgent calls for
community-based engagement and recognition of the ongoing impacts of colonisation for
Indigenous development.
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Keywords
Indigenous peoples and mass media, Alternative mass media, Indigenous peoples, Economic conditions