Portrayal of Minorities in Media

The panel discussion discussed the media representation of gender and marginalized minorities during MDLAB 2014. The discussion started with an explanation from Ms. Diana Abou Abbas on how media should use positive idioms when raising awareness regarding sexual health when addressing the public. She then gave examples of negative and positive public service announcements and the impact of each on the audience.

Ms. Sarah Mallat discussed the issue of migrant workers and their representation in media; the xenophobia and racism directed at them. Mallat explained about the lack of representation and misrepresentation of domestic workers and how often they are ignored in media.

Dr. Jad Melki ended the panel by discussing the representation of the LGBTIQ in Arab media and how it is always associated with drugs, pedophilia, and atheism. Dr. Melki also mentioned that similar coverage happens in Western countries and how the LGBTIQ are always presented in one dimension in both media.

Dr. Jad Melki works as an Associate Professor in the Department of Journalism and Media Studies at the American University in Beirut.

Sarah Mallat works as a researcher and professor in the Department of Journalism and Media Studies at the American University in Beirut

Diana Abou Abbas is the administrative director of Marsa Sexual Health Center, Lebanon.