The Indigenous Journalists Association launched the Red Press Initiative to better understand the value of an Indigenous free press to the wellbeing of Indigenous people, communities and nations. The accurate and contextual reporting about Indigenous people and issues is necessary to overcome the biases and stereotypes commonly portrayed in popular media.
The RPI Newsroom Training is designed to share best practices and educate mainstream newsrooms that aspire to report on Indigenous issues with nuance and authenticity. The curriculum addresses many of the common challenges found in mainstream coverage and will be delivered by approved IJA trainers.
Newsroom training sessions will focus on ethical approaches to misconceptions about Indigenous people, communities, and nations. The curriculum will be tailored to the reporters, editors, producers and publishers responsible for accurate and authentic portrayals of Indigenous life within their newsrooms.
Curriculum modules will be presented in approximately 45-minute sessions with an estimated 15 minute Q&A that can be delivered in-person (depending on availability) or online.
Our trainers understand that each newsroom is unique and has specific needs, which is why we will set up an initial 30 minute intake consultation to discuss your newsroom specific needs.
Recipient newsrooms that complete the curriculum will receive certification of completion.
The average cost for a RPI Newsroom Training is $2,000 and the final total includes an annual organizational membership at a level that best suits your outlet. Organizational memberships offered include two individual memberships for newsroom leaders with your outlet and are a great way for IJA to maintain a relationship with you and watch your progress in covering Indigenous communities. Outlets are encouraged to use the IJA Bingo Card and contact their trainer and/or the IJA staff with coverage questions as well as renew their annual membership after the first year covered by the training fee.