Ryerson University to host forum targeting new journalism students

Toronto, Ontario -- (SBWire) -- 02/28/2014 --Media myths and popular assumptions may be making campuses more dangerous and concealing important narratives. On Tuesday March 4 at Ryerson University, panelists will discuss this and other issues at Media Coverage of Sexual Violence on Campus, a panel discussion led in partnership between Ryerson University School of Journalism and several organizations that address gender-based violence and violence against women and girls.

The first of its kind, the event is designed to reach new journalism students as well as practicing journalists. It aims to improve how sexual violence is covered by media by identifying hidden stories, pointing to promising practices and challenging assumptions and myths.

“Sexual violence and rape culture on campus has been increasingly spotlighted in the media in the past year,” says Sandra Diaz of Canadian Women’s Foundation. “Discussions with emerging media makers at Ryerson are important to improve the quality of that coverage, spark a more informed approach and challenge us all to ask different questions.”

The event will take place March 4 from 1:00 to 2:15 PM at Ryerson University’s Sears Atrium in the George Vari Engineering and Computing Centre (245 Church Street, Toronto). It will feature a discussion moderated by Wendy Komiotis, Executive Director of METRAC, and expert panelists, including:

- Sandra Diaz, Vice President, Marketing and Communications, Canadian Women’s Foundation
- Farrah Khan and Shannon Giannitsopoulou, Co-founders, Femifesto
- Cyndy Baskin, Associate Professor, Ryerson University
- Stephanie Guthrie, Community Advocate
- Ron Couchman, Community Engagement Manager, White Ribbon

There will be a brief Q&A session following panel speakers and some panelists will be available for comment afterwards.