In her article on this topic, Jae Chul Shim quotes several noted sociolgists who see ethnic newspapers as serving two primary purposes: "helping newcomers adapt to the cultural values of the host country; the other to help immigrants preserve their ethnic heritage in the new environment." She also suggests that these two fuctions can seem "contradictory." It seems to me that she has a point. Do you agree? Shim also points to Korean newpapers in Los Angeles as examples of how ethnic papers can become an institution within a community by helping bring about positive change. I found myself wondering if such papers can be just as effective if they are owned and operated by people from outside the community as opposed to those who live and work there. What do you think?
Form the reading, Shim has a point in believing that the two are contradictory. On one hand, newspapers can really help immigrants feel welcomed and part of a community (kinda like being a college freshman!) however some people may latch on to their original culture using this media and never adapt to the new culture and society that they are living in. If they are never forced to learn the new culture then they live completely foreign to the world around them. But I don't think this is necessarily the media's fault.
ReplyDeleteI think that ethnic newspapers, in general, really help a newcomer to the U.S. become assimilated to our cultures and values without completely having to give up their own. I think it's the ethnic newspaper's responsibility to keep the original culture alive while encouraging their readers to participate in the communities they live in and learn some new traditions.
I also think they would be most effective if run/operated by people in the community their readers are in. Not only would it give it credibility as a news source but the readers would be more apt to change and take the suggestions of the paper if they knew the source. If it was coming from a whole different community then the readers, in my opinion, would be more likely to dismiss what the paper was broadcasting because "that paper doesn't understand us!"
I guess they could be contradictory. But I think it depends on the individual. If a person wants to only consume one type of media, then that's what they do. Actually, a lot of people do this, not just immigrants. I do feel the ethnic papers are important in helping people become more assimilated. They help provide familiarity. There's nothing wrong with that. In the case of the Korean newspapers, I think this example proves what we've been talking about this entire semester. These papers are ethnic owned and operated. And like Shim states, they have really had a positive impact on the community that they serve. Because they are from within the community, the reporters understand what their audience wants to read about. They don't dwell on sterotypes like mainstream media might.
ReplyDeleteI don't think the papers would be just as effective if they were owned by people outside of the community. I feel that people who live there know their community the best. They have a different persepctive than mainstream media, and I think it might show in the reporting.
I figured out how to work the blog now!
ReplyDeleteThis topic is so interesting! The article made such a valid point. These ethnic newspapers provide people with a sort of comforting welcome to the community, but it could also keep different races and ethnicities from blending with the mainstream. We spent so much time discussing how many different groups are portrayed in a way that has society thinking they have not progressed, but if these options are available to them they may choose to hold a higher value for their culture in a way that keeps them seperate from the majority.
Your question about whether or not these newspapers would be effective if they were owned and operated from elsewhere. I think Heider's book attributed some of the problem to be about owners who were not in an area. If these newspapers are being owned and operated from the country they are representing, then the reader might feel more connected to that paper and the things in it. This could further keep them from adapting to a new culture though. I think there needs to be a balance and it is up to an individual to make a decision about how they might be involved in a new community so that even though they are still respectful of their original culture, they are not keeping themselves away from mixing with their new community.
After reading this article, I thought about all of the old cigar factories in Tampa where I'm from and how I learned that they used to have designated "readers" who translated the daily newspaper into Spanish, so that the cigar rollers could get the news, even though they could not read in English. To me, that's what ethnic papers do, except they allow their readers to view and interpret the news in their own native language. If ethnic newspapers were to become nonexistent, you'd still find ethnically concentrated communities interpreting the news in their own way. I think that maintaining the local ethnic newspapers is necessary for the reasons listed in the article, and that their benefits to the community outweigh their contradictory negatives.
ReplyDeleteI'd like to see a large company with the resources and know-how publish an "ethnic newspaper." I don't think it would be able to completely translate over that cultural barrier. This problem of gaining access is something that Heider's research showed was a hardship for outside media sources. Myra's got a great point when she says that being locally run would help give the paper's sources more credibility to the community members; something a large, outside company would have difficulty obtaining without spending a lot of time, money and resources in that one area alone. Ultimately, these papers cover stories that are able to incorporate both mainstream issues and 'community agendas,' so that newcomers can be better facilitated to American mainstream customs while preserving some of their original cultural identity.
I find myself somewhat torn on the issue of ethnic newspapers. In some ways, I can see how they could benefit the particular minority, and at least allow these people to have a means of keeping up with the news. On the other hand, however, I feel like these papers could be somewhat contradictory, and also a way of keeping these minority groups from adapting the English language.
ReplyDeleteI work in a company that hires a large number of immigrants, particularly Asians and Latinos. One of my biggest frustrations is when people who have worked in our company for many years (thus lived in the U.S. for many years) and can still barely speak a word of English. To me, it is one thing to not know the language when you are just moving to a new country, but I know that in the U.S. there are so many classes that teach ESOL (i have observed a few when I was an education major) that I find it somewhat unacceptable for someone to not learn at least basic conversational english. I think most of my frustrations from this come from minorities who are rude to me because I cannot understand their language.
On the other hand, I think that if I moved to another country I would probably be thrilled to see an english newspaper. I would also, however, make every effort to learn the country's language.
I think another reason why these papers present a problem is because, once again, they are giving minorities "their" paper while we have "our" paper. This could lead mainstream papers to offer less coverage of minorities since they assume they are getting their news elsewhere.
I do believe that for these papers to have any chance at being successful, they need to be operated and managed by people in the community. This way, minorities will at least have access to local news and information concerning the areas in which they live.
I think Myra made an excellent point. If I moved to a foreign country where English wasn't the primary language, I would love the ability to read the news and happenings and be able to completely understand what's going on. Like Myra said, it's like being a college freshman and they're handing you the guide to how to be a college student.
ReplyDeleteOn the other hand, I know that at least in my case, I'd probably become dependent on the magazine/newspaper/show and wouldn't necessarily seek out other forms of media so that I could better assimilate into the culture. I suppose this could contradict the original meaning of the papers, but at the same time, isn't living in the new place and having to shop and function in the new place a teaching experience enough? I understand that there can be a contradiction to the effect of the papers, but I don't think it's drastic. Sure, they get the paper in their familiar language, but people still have to go to the grocery store and buy clothes and function in a society that is foreign to them. (I hope I'm making my points clear...It's 11:16 and I'm exhausted. I'll clarify tomorrow in class if need be.)
One concern I would have is if these "ethnic" papers or forms of media were owned by other media conglomerates that owned familiarized/"regular" publications in the country. If that was the case, I think the company might find it easier to relegate that information to the ethnic newspaper rather than find a place for it in the more widely-circulated publication.
It has been said already, and sure, if we where in another, non-English speaking country and found an English language media outlet we would be hard pressed not to use it. But, I think that it is an entirely different situation for non-English speaking individuals in the U.S. who acquire their news from outlets presented in their traditional language. In the U.S. there are sections of cities that comprise almost entirely of minority populations with their own languages and customs as if they where back in their previous country. Look at Korean, Chinese, Latin or Carib districts of U.S. cities, if one wished they could never leave these areas and subsist just fine and never assimilate into the majority of American culture. These types of places don't really exist in other parts of the world for Americans, so it would be more difficult for one of us not to assimilate into a host country.
ReplyDeleteI find it disappointing that some would come to this country for a life hopefully better than the one they left behind, but to then not participate in the freedoms of our culture as a whole nation, from the city level all the way to the national level. I do not mean to say that this is case for every ethnic minority community in the U.S. or for all of the individuals who reside in these places (because there are plenty of Americans who live outside of these ethnic communities and are not active in the running of their nation), but it is an option that people have, and having media outlets that cater specifically to their first language only empower this option. People then begin to get comfy and find it less pertinent to step outside the comfort that their community provides.
I don't think that the two functions of foreign language newspapers as stated in the text are contradictory though. I mean there is no single thought process, value system or culture in America. Some people are conservative news readers while some are liberal and others just don't care. Some are religious, some are racist and some just love everybody. Our differences do not make us less American. They are what makes us American and this country the nation that it is.
There is now way to unhitch ethnic communities off of these media outlets because we have people immigrating here from all over the world on a daily basis. These papers give a voice to minorities and cognition to what is happening around them. It can be a start to taking a more active role in a democratic society.
I think that ethnic newspapers serve very important purposes in their communities. The points that the author makes do seem contradictory, but I think that the two can work together. Moving to a new place is difficult, and it is even more challenging if there is a language barrier. However, the transition can be made easier if there is a publication available to you in your native language. The alternative is that there is no media choice for non-English speaking immigrants. I believe this would make adapting to new surroundings even more difficult, because the language barrier would mean that you don't know what is going on around you as presented by the news media. It would be great to think that everyone who lives in America is literate and able to speak fluent English as their second language, but that just isn't reality. I think ethnic newspapers serve an important purpose in keeping different populations informed and aware of what is going on in their communities.
ReplyDeleteIt makes sense for ethnic newspapers to be produced by people who live in the community, but I think "outsiders" could also run effective publications. It just takes awareness and attention. An example that I can think of is The Weekly Challenger, which is considered a black newspaper. However, writers from all different backgrounds contribute to the newspaper. Being black is not a prerequisite for getting published. The Weekly Challenger prints stories from students at the Neighborhood News Bureau and employs a diverse staff. I think that people from a certain ethnic background definitely can offer insight, and "outsiders" need to tune in to that.
The idea of moving to a foriegn country and being able to keep up on the news by reading a newspaper in my own language sounds not only comforting but encouraging. I can understand how the idea may be contradictory, but, as we've talked about so many times before, you must understand and know the culture you're living in (or reporting on) so you can really interact to the fullest. If these people from different ethnic backgrounds want to understand the culture they are living in, what better way than to read a newspaper that they can completely understand. Unfortunately, without ethnic newspapers, or media, what other way will these people from different ethinic backgrounds who speak different languages, ever understand how their "new" culture works.
ReplyDeleteAlthough I think that a publication could benefit by being operated by people in that specific community, why not include people who have a different point of view and a different understanding of the surroundings. I believe exposing people to diversity is the best way to make everyone, no matter the ethnic background, feel comfortable.
I agree that the two points made in the article seem contradictory. I think that having ethnic news media bring people in those communities together and certainly give them something familiar to relate to if they don't speak English. If they didn't have these news outlets, they might not be aware of what is going on at all and I don't think that is a better alternative. I know that it is important to many immigrants to preserve a part of their ethnic identity, but I am not concerned that ethnic news media alone will prevent them from becoming accustomed to their new community. Sure, you can find a job that doesn't require you to speak English at all, but if you really want to create a better life for yourself and your family, I think you will find it essential to learn the language and customs of the mainstream community.
ReplyDeleteOh yeah,
ReplyDeleteI think that ethnic publications would most benefit if they were run by those who live and work inside that community as well as those who don't. I think this is the best way to attempt to create a publication that balances what is important to people within that community without excluding the perspectives and issues happening in the mainstream.
Similar to what Myra and Cory said...and Owl...and Sunofire6...I think the publications would be a very big stepping stone into a culture if you were new in the area...It would be a way to remain connected back to your roots, plus help you integrate into the culture by maintaining abreast of current events.
ReplyDeleteThe danger, as I believe Cory pointed out, is that it becomes a crutch...People become dependent and dont' expand past their own cultures to become part of a new one.
The opportunity to remain effective is definitely a possibility whether inside or outside the community...in fact, that may be the best method of integrating. Perhaps find a way to blend the two culutres together into one publication...whether that be stories printed in both languages, or ads in one the native language compared to the stories. It would be a good way to mix.
But what do I know? I get my news from Facebook and Yahoo, right Lydia?!
Like most people, I agree that ethnic papers are very important for newcomers.I wish I knew about the Challenger newspaper here in St.Pete before I moved here, then maybe my transitioning from New York to Florida wouldn't have been such a surprise. I could also see how the two purposes of the newspapers can be contradictory. It's tough trying to balance perserving one's culture and then assimilating to American culture.
ReplyDeleteMy problem with ethnic papers is in its content. The Korean news did a lot of reporting on criminal activities amongst their own people. Im sorry, but mainstream media do an excellent job portraying ethnic minorities as criminals and trouble makers in society, ethnic papers dont need to do the same thing. The papers should continue to report those stories that help citizens in their community and that show them portrayed in a good light, because if they din't chances are mainstream media won't either.
Ethnic papers are important in helping people (newcomers) adjust to societal changes. They allow for the people to remain informed about news that is important to them and can help encourage participation in the community. However, if people in the communities aren't seeking other avenues of news and information this could hinder their experiences/learning and their participation in the mainstream culture/community. I see where they can be contradictory. Some people might seclude themselves from the new community and stay within their "comfort zone." I think people get too comfortable with what they know and are afraid of change. This is where the ethnic papers could be a problem.
ReplyDeleteI believe the two points that she makes can be contradictory, but at the same time both are important. The United States isn't called the melting pot of the world for nothing. We welcome all ethnicities and different cultures. In doing that we should be able to provide something that makes them feel welcome in our society until they are fully comfortable with mainstream America. Whether it be with a newspaper, advertising, television or another type of media they should be able to make the transition as they feel ready to do so. I do however think that it is important for them to eventually make that transition before they get too comfortable and don't want to put the effort forth to make the change.
ReplyDeleteBy the way, the author, Jae Chui Shim, is a man
ReplyDeleteThe existence and popularity of El Nuevo Herald (Miami Herald) is proof that outsider ownership of foreign-language/ethnic newspapers is a viable enterprise. The Herald took a gamble and printed an experimental spanish language paper and it worked.
As to the earlier point, the uses and benefits of ethnic newspapers outweigh the contradictory values of assimilation over preservation.
All newspapers appeal to certain demographics and to audiences that buy into their particular frame or perspectives. In a way, the St. Petersburg Times is an ethnic white newspaper and serves the needs of its mostly white audience. Despite it's dominance in the market, it covers the news in similar ways that the Korean newspapers did, according to Shim.
Ethnic or social sub-culture news has been consistently proven to provide news for their communities that is ignored by "mainstream" media. The benefits Shim said of the Korean newspapers can be said about any small-circulated newspaper with a dedicated following.
I think America has become the 'melting pot of cultures' and the fact that we have ethnic papers makes the transition for 'newcomers' easier, as to let them know that we appreciate 'their' community. But I wonder if this makes mainstream newspapers 'our' paper and the ethnic paper 'their' paper? I mean, does this separate us even more? For this I can see the cultural differences between ethnic communities. Are we benefiting different cultures by giving them a comfy little comfort zone or are we pushing them more into their little niche to stay there forever? Not sure... I think this is the downside.
ReplyDelete