Purpose

This training program on coverage of immigration brings together journalists from U.S. community-based Spanish- and English-language media and Latin American media for a hands-on training workshop on covering immigration issues, followed by several days of reporting on the issue under the guidance of experienced trainers. It will take place in Washington, D.C., April 16-24.

The result will be more accurate, engaging and responsible reporting for immigrants already in the United States, for Latin Americans who are considering immigrating or have family members here, and for others in the United States who are affected by growing numbers of immigrants. An additional benefit will be lasting ties between media in the United States and Latin America that will enable cross-border cooperation on stories long after this program ends.

Even as the immigration debate has grown more complicated and more vociferous in the United States and abroad, little attention has been paid to the media that reach immigrants – and potential immigrants – themselves. The burgeoning Spanish-language media in the United States have not had the kind of training their English-language counterparts have had in such issues as in-depth reporting, explanatory journalism, media ethics and specialized reporting on business, consumer, legal and health issues important to immigrants. English-language media in smaller communities affected most by rising immigration also need help in understanding the rapidly changing issue. Media in the countries that send immigrants to the United States have had little opportunity to learn the intricacies of U.S. policy, resulting in potential immigrants having a poor understanding of what awaits them upon crossing the border.

Program Administrator

The immigration coverage training program is administered by the International Center for Journalists (ICFJ), and sponsored by the McCormick Tribune Foundation and the Scripps Howards Foundation.

More>