International Journalism: South Africa (372-0-20)
Instructors
Ava Thompson Greenwell
Arionne Alyssa Nettles
Meeting Info
Shepard Hall Classroom B05: Wed, Fri 10:00AM - 11:50AM
Overview of class
This course covers contemporary history in South Africa with a special focus on the role of media. It provides an opportunity to hear from African journalists working in one of the world's newest democracies and to compare and contrast their experience with the increasingly contested role of reporters in the U.S., the world's oldest constitutional republic. Both countries recently experienced constitutional crises provoked by the behavior of unconventional chief executives who considered the conventions of journalism an existential threat. In both places, Covid-19 hit hard, revealing weaknesses and patterns of discrimination in public health systems. Speaking directly with journalists, activists, publishers, producers and media executives, we'll explore the state of independent journalism in South Africa and take stock of startups particularly well-adapted to reporting on the content. We'll center our exploration on several key questions: What relevance does the governing party's promise to produce a "nonracial," egalitarian, anti-sexist, and non-homophobic society on the southern tip of Africa have for social justice movements here? And what are current expectations about journalism's role in bolstering those values? Drawing from radio, television, print, and online sites, we'll zero in on ethical considerations for doing exemplary journalism across lines of nationality, class, culture, language, ethnicity, race, age, gender and other considerations.
Class Materials (Required)
After Mandela: The Struggle for Freedom in Post-Apartheid South Africa. [WW Norton: 2012], available for $18.00 in hardcover or $19.25 Kindle.
Class Attributes
Attendance at 1st class mandatory
Registration is By Application Only
SDG Peace & Justice
Enrollment Requirements
Enrollment Requirements: Reserved for Medill Sophomores, Juniors & Seniors