MEDIA, POWER AND PROTEST: ANALYZING MAORI ACTIVISM REPRESENTATION IN NEWS NARRATIVES

Abstract

This research investigates the discursive and linguistic representation of Maori Activism and protests in selected media narratives. This study highlights how indigenous resistance is framed within RNZ and The Stanford Review. This paper utilizes the analytic framework formulated by blending Entman’s Framing Theory and Tenu.A.van Dijk’s socio-coginitive model. This study using this framework explores how media discourse is shaped by underlying ideologies, cognitive stuctures and power relations. Focusing on the haka protest led by Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke in parliament, this study explores the use of linguistic strategies those have been employed to construct, marginalize or legitimize indigenous resistance. This study uses CDA to compare how each outlet reflects broader ideological stuctures.Finding reveals that RNZ employs neutral to supportive language in framing Maori protest, while the Stanford employs derogatory terms for activists and lacks neutral framing .This contrast indicates the role of language in shaping and framing realities and events . Through a qualitative comparative analysis this research describes the role of critical discourse tool and framing components to reveal implicit biases in media narratives. This research implies the significance of encouraging balanced and impartial media representation, especially for marginalized communities. This research advocates for the critical need for ethical journalism prioritizing fairness, accuracy , and cultural sensitivity when reporting on marginalized communities .This study stresses on fostering a media environment that supports justice ,inclusivity and truth.