A Platform For Somali Ice-Fishing : Changing Media Representations Of Somalis In Minneapolis

Abstract:

This study looks at how media representations change regarding Somalis in Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA, under the course of a project called “I AM A STAR for Somalia”, launched in April 2011. A quantitative content analysis of print media is employed, concentrating on factors such as actors, subjects, patterns of quoting, involvement and article prominence. Various studies are used as a foundation, including Teun Van Dijk (1991), which introduce and explain theories such as Ideology and Racism, Agenda Setting, Minimal Effects and Integration. Ultimately, the analysis reveals a change in media portrayals correlating with the I AM A STAR project; Somalis are portrayed in roles and stories which normalise their representation in the year following the launch. In the second year, however, these positive effects are not as apparent.