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Earlier this week, a third-rate news station in town (in my not-so-humble opinion) did a half-assed job in reporting about the local pagan community. I didn't see either of the two-part story, but a lot of my colleagues did. The owner of a local pagan bookshop was interviewed, and her words were apparently (or allgedly) twisted in the editing room. The shop's owner is now pursuing legal action.
If the reporter was truly interested in enlightening his viewers, and not perpetuating the stereotype that witches are evil and worship Satan, then he would have taken the time to do the story right. Several people who wrote to the station, and to the reporter. The reporter's response: "Are Satanists Pagan?"
I should mention that the station is owned by Sinclair Broadcasting, one known for espousing neo-conservative views.
Of course, pagans aren't the only ones who get short shrift in the press. If they were to cover a science-fiction convention, they'd focus on the pointed-ear-wearing, Vulcan saluting "Trekkies". Or for a college fraternity, they'll portray them as drunken frat boys a la "Animal House".
Old stereotypes die hard, and the only way to change them is Educate. Educate. Educate. But if the media's not interested in changing their views, then it seems to be a moot point.
If the reporter was truly interested in enlightening his viewers, and not perpetuating the stereotype that witches are evil and worship Satan, then he would have taken the time to do the story right. Several people who wrote to the station, and to the reporter. The reporter's response: "Are Satanists Pagan?"
I should mention that the station is owned by Sinclair Broadcasting, one known for espousing neo-conservative views.
Of course, pagans aren't the only ones who get short shrift in the press. If they were to cover a science-fiction convention, they'd focus on the pointed-ear-wearing, Vulcan saluting "Trekkies". Or for a college fraternity, they'll portray them as drunken frat boys a la "Animal House".
Old stereotypes die hard, and the only way to change them is Educate. Educate. Educate. But if the media's not interested in changing their views, then it seems to be a moot point.
