Abstract
This article is a theoretical analysis aimed at articulating the harm caused by media (mis)representation, and at showing existing ways in which this harm can be contested. The approaches analysed are largely from the United Kingdom. However, the issues they raise are not unique and the models explored are potentially transferable. The examples cover a range of media, including British right-wing press, television and Facebook; and characteristics protected by equality legislation in the UK such as sex, sexual orientation, race, religion and mental health stigma. Crucially, all the initiatives presented demonstrate the group-based nature of media (mis)representations, which cannot be understood and, therefore, cannot be addressed through individualistic approaches. Therefore, the article concludes that the role of groups as the targets of media (mis)representation and as potential claimants should be fully acknowledged and enabled.
Highlights
Speech that uses demeaning stereotypes, that disparages or maligns disadvantaged groups—representation—is not frequently considered hate speech
This paper explores the harm caused by this sort of speech and suggests the crucial role of individuals and the organised civil society in challenging its use and seeking redress
The term ‘organised civil society’ as used in this article references groups of people that organise themselves in order to work towards the achievement of a common aim(s) such as challenging mediarepresentations
Summary
Speech that uses demeaning stereotypes, that disparages or maligns disadvantaged groups— (mis)representation—is not frequently considered hate speech. This paper explores the harm caused by this sort of speech and suggests the crucial role of individuals and the organised civil society in challenging its use and seeking redress. All have identified issues that affect the groups they represent—locally and internationally—and have undertaken a range of initiatives in order to redress such issues. Groups of this type are often identified as essential for social movements that seek justice and equality and there is a vast literature about their development, strengths and weaknesses including issues of internal and external dissent (see Baker et al 2004: 189-207; Perez Portilla 2016: 101-109)
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