Journalism News and Jobs: Canada

October 10, 2024 (Issue 16)

Welcome to Journalism News and Jobs: Canada.

Every Thursday I'll curate interesting news items about Canadian journalism with a quick summary and link to read the full story.

I'll also add some hand-picked Canadian journalism jobs with links to the media outlet or organization and (where possible) a contact name and/or e-mail, so you can apply to a real person.

Feedback and news/jobs tips welcome!

John Carson / johncarson AT gmail DOT COM

https://www.linkedin.com/in/johncarson/

Editorial – The critical importance of journalism

National Newspaper Week, celebrated from October 6-12, highlights the essential role of journalism in communities like South Dundas and across Canada. In a time of financial challenges for many media outlets, the integrity and importance of authentic journalism remain more crucial than ever. Community newspapers like The Leader, with over 160 years of history, ensure reliable news through fact-checking, even as technology rapidly transforms how news is delivered. While disinformation and extremism rise, trusted sources like local newspapers continue to serve their communities by providing accurate, essential coverage. Despite a shrinking media landscape, The Leader remains dedicated to informing readers and maintaining journalistic integrity.

https://www.morrisburgleader.ca/2024/10/03/editorial-the-critical-importance-of-journalism/

National Newspaper Week is about supporting local journalism

According to the Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism’s Digital News Report 2024, only 39% of Canadians trust the news, compared to 32% of Americans. This decline in trust is influenced by factors like engagement-driven algorithms that prioritize reinforcing opinions over providing hard news, as well as the rise of misinformation and fake news. However, Canadians still hold relatively high trust (65%) in their regional or local newspapers, which focus on issues directly affecting daily life. The report emphasizes that real journalism requires substantial resources, unlike automated content generation or clickbait. Solutions to support journalism include businesses advertising in local newspapers, government action to ensure fair advertising spending, and policy adjustments like exempting community newspapers from certain Canada Post restrictions. National Newspaper Week serves as a moment to reflect on how Canadians can help sustain quality journalism in an era of rampant misinformation.

https://www.vauxhalladvance.com/editorial/2024/10/03/national-newspaper-week-is-about-supporting-local-journalism/

Ottawa to announce changes to CBC's mandate, appoint new CEO in the next four weeks: source

Heritage Minister Pascale St-Onge is set to announce changes to modernize CBC/Radio-Canada's mandate, which hasn't been updated since 1991. These changes, expected in October or early November, aim to address the broadcaster’s long-term funding, appoint a new CEO, and reinforce CBC's commitment to local news amidst declining commercial revenue. The review comes as the broadcaster faces challenges from foreign tech giants dominating the ad market and political pressure from Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, who has vowed to defund CBC's English-language operations. The reforms are also designed to strengthen trust and collaboration between CBC and other local news outlets to support Canadian journalism at a time when many domestic media outlets are struggling financially.

https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/cbc-mandate-review-1.7341700

Village Media has some big news — and the launch of TorontoToday is only the beginning

Village Media is expanding its local news presence by acquiring Queen’s Park Today and Parliament Today, two prominent political newsletters, while launching TorontoToday, a hyperlocal news source focused on downtown Toronto. The acquisition strengthens Village Media’s legislative reporting, adding to its bureau at Queen’s Park and creating its first bureau on Parliament Hill. The team of journalists behind these newsletters will join The Trillium, Village’s legislative news platform. Additionally, Village Media is preparing to launch SPACES, a new local social media network aimed at fostering civil, community-driven discussions. These moves aim to enhance local and political news coverage, with a focus on community engagement.

https://www.northernontariobusiness.com/top-stories/village-media-has-some-big-news-and-the-launch-of-torontotoday-is-only-the-beginning-9601854

New Indigenous storytellers fellowship program launches for emerging journalists

Journalists for Human Rights (JHR), the Indigenous Journalists Association (IJA), and APTN News, supported by the Google News Initiative, are launching the Growing Indigenous Storytellers Fellowship Program this fall. The program will provide six emerging Indigenous journalists with six-month fellowships at APTN News and networking opportunities at IJA's 2025 Indigenous Media Conference. It also includes workshops and lectures aimed at fostering new talent in journalism. The initiative seeks to address the high demand for Indigenous voices in Canadian media, while overcoming barriers that prevent Indigenous people from entering the industry, by creating mentorship and career pathways for future journalists.

https://www.newswire.ca/news-releases/new-indigenous-storytellers-fellowship-program-launches-for-emerging-journalists-884655699.html

Brown-John: News media don't exist to please politicians

The relationship between politicians and the media is complex, with politicians often resenting negative coverage yet eager for name recognition. Social media has empowered anonymous influencers tied to politicians, allowing them to sway public opinion. Veteran journalist Barbara Frum recognized that politicians cannot be satisfied by honest journalism. Her son, David Frum, a conservative writer, critiques the media's influence on politics, noting the sway outlets like Fox News hold over Republicans. In Canada, politicians, especially Conservatives, have clashed with the CBC, a public broadcaster known for its impartiality. While politicians strive to control messaging, often avoiding unscripted media interactions, independent journalism remains crucial in exposing truths amidst a landscape increasingly dominated by spin and social media manipulation.

https://windsorstar.com/opinion/columnists/brown-john-news-media-dont-exist-to-please-politicians

News pollution is more dangerous than news poverty in this small BC town

Lauren Watson, an aspiring writer and avid climber, pursued journalism after graduating with a geography degree from the University of Guelph in 2009. Although she spent a decade immersed in the climbing community, founding the Ground Up climbing gym in Squamish, BC, her passion for journalism ultimately led her to Columbia University, where she excelled, winning awards for her climate reporting. Her recent investigative work for the Columbia Journalism Review (CJR) focused on political disinformation in Squamish, where Facebook pages posing as local groups manipulated residents during the municipal election. Watson’s article highlighted the challenge of combating disinformation, especially after Meta blocked news links in Canada, and underscored the importance of independent local journalism in holding power accountable.

https://canadiandimension.com/articles/view/news-pollution-is-more-dangerous-than-news-poverty-in-this-small-bc-town

The before and after

In 2021, a set of seemingly grassroots Facebook pages appeared in Squamish, British Columbia, initially sharing local news but soon turning to political disinformation targeting the town’s municipal council. Investigations revealed these pages were linked to a right-wing influence group, Canada Proud, and were part of a broader strategy to sway public opinion before the local election through smear campaigns and misleading claims. Despite the disinformation, the candidates targeted by the campaign won. However, by 2023, new legislation led to Meta blocking Canadian news from its platform, complicating efforts to combat disinformation and share legitimate news, especially during significant crises like the wildfire season. While alternatives like TikTok and email lists are used by media outlets, some, like Indigenous news platforms, are reluctantly paying Meta to ensure their stories reach key communities. This situation highlights the tensions between government regulation, tech giants, and the struggle of local journalism in Canada.

https://www.cjr.org/business_of_news/the-before-and-after.php

Journalism for the Public Good/The Michener Awards at Fifty

The article recounts a gathering at Toronto’s Massey College for the launch of Journalism for the Public Good: the Michener Awards at Fifty by Kim S. Kierans, which celebrates the role of journalism in fostering democracy. Rick McCutcheon, former publisher of the Manitoulin Expositor, thanked Toronto Star reporter Noor Javed for her work regarding Premier Doug Ford's attempt to open Ontario’s Greenbelt to developers. Due to Javed’s persistent reporting, Ford reversed the decision. This event highlighted journalism's power in protecting public interests and featured several esteemed journalists. The book serves as both a historical account of landmark journalism and a call for future generations to sustain the profession.

https://www.manitoulin.com/journalism-for-the-public-good-the-michener-awards-at-fifty/

Fireside brings back newspaper to Kawartha Lakes

After Metroland ceased publishing Kawartha Lakes This Week last fall, Fireside Publishing House responded to community demand for a local weekly paper by launching Kawartha Lakes Weekly in August, delivering it to 25,000 homes with Post Media. The move highlights both the failure of large corporations to serve public interest and the enduring love communities have for print media. A 2023 study by Two Sides supports this, showing that consumers prefer reading print over digital, find it more engaging, and are more likely to respond to print advertisements than online ones. Fireside also publishes other local-focused publications like The Lindsay Advocate.

https://mastheadonline.com/news/fireside_brings_back_newspaper_to_kawartha_lakes/

The New Media - replacing print with digital has changed the way news is delivered

The decline of daily newspapers, once staples in households, is evident today with only a few national publications like The New York Times and The Washington Post still thriving. Most local newspapers, including The Hamilton Spectator, have lost their prominence. The rise of internet services like Craigslist and Kijiji decimated classified ad revenue, once a key financial pillar for print media. Despite some efforts to adapt, such as the Toronto Star's joint venture with LaPresse to go digital, only LaPresse succeeded in this transition. Many newspapers, including the Toronto Star, have faced financial crises, leading to ownership changes and struggles to maintain relevance in the digital age.

https://www.mastheadonline.com/blogs/?blogId=1449&year=2024&month=October

Indiegraf to expand independent news solution after raising $2.9 million CAD

Vancouver-based Indiegraf has secured $2.9 million CAD in seed funding to expand its platform, which helps journalists build sustainable digital businesses. The round, led by StandUp Ventures, with participation from Coralus and Mucker Capital, brings Indiegraf’s total funding to $4.7 million CAD. Founded in 2020 by sisters Erin Millar and Caitlin Havlak, Indiegraf provides tools for small, independent news outlets, including website builders, payment systems, and ad platforms. The startup aims to support local media in adapting to the digital age, especially in underserved communities. With over 150 media partners across North America, Indiegraf plans to expand further into the U.S. and Latin America by 2025.

https://betakit.com/indiegraf-to-expand-independent-news-solution-after-raising-2-9-million-cad/

World-Spectator celebrates 140 years

The World-Spectator celebrated its 140th anniversary on October 2, marking its long-standing history as Saskatchewan's oldest business and a thriving community newspaper. Owner and publisher Kevin Weedmark, who took over in 2002, has expanded the paper’s reach to multiple communities and developed successful offshoots like Plain & Valley and Ag News. Weedmark’s community-first approach has led to financial growth and numerous national awards. Editor Kara Kinna emphasized the paper’s integral role in the region, reflecting community stories and needs. Both leaders credit the paper’s success to strong community support, dedicated staff, and a focus on service over profit.

https://www.world-spectator.com/news_story.php?id=5444

Ottawa Declaration: International public broadcasters join Public Media Alliance, Global Task Force for public media, and CBC/Radio-Canada in fighting disinformation

Members of the international public service media community, including the Public Media Alliance and the Global Task Force, have endorsed the Ottawa Declaration, an initiative introduced by CBC/Radio-Canada at the 2024 Public Broadcasters International conference. The declaration aims to counter the global threat of disinformation, exacerbated by the decline of local news outlets and the spread of misinformation online. Signatories pledge to ensure access to accurate news, combat disinformation through media literacy and fact-checking, promote civil democratic debate, hold social media platforms accountable, and use AI responsibly to benefit the public.

https://www.newswire.ca/news-releases/ottawa-declaration-international-public-broadcasters-join-public-media-alliance-global-task-force-for-public-media-and-cbc-radio-canada-in-fighting-disinformation-855620925.html

Michael de Adder, renowned cartoonist, let go by Postmedia-owned N.S. newspaper

Renowned editorial cartoonist Michael de Adder, a member of the Order of Canada and winner of multiple national newspaper awards, was recently let go by The Chronicle-Herald after nearly 30 years. De Adder, known for his biting political cartoons, remains undeterred despite the shrinking editorial cartoon industry. He acknowledged that newspapers face global challenges and expressed frustration that cartoonists often lose jobs due to fear of their critical voices. Over the years, de Adder’s work has both moved the nation and stirred controversy, including his 2018 depiction of national tragedies and his controversial cartoons of Justin Trudeau and Donald Trump. Despite the job loss, de Adder remains committed to his craft, maintaining contracts with The Globe and Mail and The Hill Times while building a subscription-based model for his work.

https://globalnews.ca/news/10803453/michael-de-adder-editorial-cartoonist-let-go-chronicle-herald/

Real people, real news, real accountability

As a young reporter in Jasper, Alberta, I once wrote a snarky headline about a local councillor’s election loss, thinking it was clever but later realizing it was hurtful. The councillor playfully hit me with the newspaper, masking his true humiliation. This moment has stuck with me as a reminder of the responsibility that comes with local journalism. Local reporters, unlike distant commentators, are deeply connected to the communities they serve, making both journalists and local institutions accountable. With the decline of local journalism due to lost advertising revenue to platforms like Facebook and Google, many communities have lost this crucial accountability. To preserve local journalism, readers should support their local papers through subscriptions, donations, or by supporting the businesses that advertise with them. Real, local journalism fosters real accountability, but it needs community support to survive.

https://www.lakelandtoday.ca/opinion/real-people-real-news-real-accountability-9621380

Research Journalist - Investment Executive, Newcom Media

https://ca.indeed.com/viewjob?jk=894bf977c452eafe

Advice and Services Editor (Editorial), The Globe and Mail

https://can241.dayforcehcm.com/CandidatePortal/en-US/theglobeandmail/Posting/View/2725

Healthy Living Reporter (Editorial), The Globe and Mail

https://can241.dayforcehcm.com/CandidatePortal/en-US/theglobeandmail/Posting/View/2713

Theatre Reporter (Editorial), The Globe and Mail

https://can241.dayforcehcm.com/CandidatePortal/en-US/theglobeandmail/Posting/View/2698

Consumer Affairs Reporter (Editorial), The Globe and Mail

https://can241.dayforcehcm.com/CandidatePortal/en-US/theglobeandmail/Posting/View/2746

Indigenous Journalist, CityNews

https://jobs.rogers.com/job/Vancouver-Indigenous-Journalist-BC/1078650100/

Multimedia Journalist, Postmedia

https://can241.dayforcehcm.com/CandidatePortal/en-CA/postmedia/Site/PostmediaCareers/Posting/View/4886

Journaliste, Cogeco Média inc.

https://cogeco.wd3.myworkdayjobs.com/fr-CA/Cogeco_Careers/job/St-Jrme-QC/Journaliste_JR8063

Managing Editor, UofT Mississauga

https://jobs.utoronto.ca/job/Mississauga-Managing-Editor-ON/585295317/

CBC North Indigenous Tech Internship, CBC Whitehorse

https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/north/community/cbc-north-is-looking-for-a-broadcast-technologist-intern-october-7-2024-1.7343471

Associate Editor, Tech Policy Press

https://jobs.gusto.com/postings/tech-policy-press-associate-editor-a56f6b0f-6cbe-4bc6-964d-5deedbd43d29

Daily News Editor, Canadian Mining Journal

https://www.linkedin.com/jobs/view/4043534315/

Breaking News Correspondent (x2), Reuters

https://careers.thomsonreuters.com/us/en/job/THTTRUUSJREQ180757EXTERNALENUS/Breaking-News-Correspondent / https://www.jeffgaulin.com/jobs/JobDetails.asp?id=33622

Reporter, Saskatoon StarPhoenix

https://can241.dayforcehcm.com/CandidatePortal/en-CA/postmedia/Site/PostmediaCareers/Posting/View/4836 / https://www.jeffgaulin.com/jobs/JobDetails.asp?id=33621

Copy Editor/National Online Journalist, Copy Desk - Global News Toronto

https://can241.dayforcehcm.com/CandidatePortal/en-US/corusent/Site/CORUS/Posting/View/15992

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