Bel lMedia Corporate Cultural DiversityReport 2015
-
Upload
canadaland -
Category
Documents
-
view
217 -
download
0
Transcript of Bel lMedia Corporate Cultural DiversityReport 2015
-
7/24/2019 Bel lMedia Corporate Cultural DiversityReport 2015
1/47
Bell MediaCorporate Cultural Diversity Report - 2015
Corporate Cultural Diversity Report
2015
Bell Media Inc.
29 January 2016
-
7/24/2019 Bel lMedia Corporate Cultural DiversityReport 2015
2/47
-
7/24/2019 Bel lMedia Corporate Cultural DiversityReport 2015
3/47
Table of Contents
Page
1.0 INTRODUCTION
2.0 INDUSTRY COMMITMENT
3.0 APPLICATION AND MEASUREMENT
4.0 CORPORATE ACCOUNTABILITY
5.0 RECRUITMENT, HIRING AND RETENTION
5.1 Diversity in Staffing
5.2 Accessibility in the Workplace
5.3 Training and Development
6.0 INTERNSHIPS, MENTORING AND SCHOLARSHIPS
7.0 PROGRAMMING
7.1 News and Information Programming
7.2 Sports Programming
7.3 Entertainment Programming
8.0 COMMUNITY AND INDUSTRY OUTREACH
8.1 Bell Media Local Services
8.2 Bell Media National Services
8.3 Bell Media Corporate Initiatives
9.0 INTERNAL COMMUNICATIONS
10.0 CONCLUSION
-
7/24/2019 Bel lMedia Corporate Cultural DiversityReport 2015
4/47
1.0 INTRODUCTION
1. Bell Media Inc. is pleased to submit its 2015 Corporate Cultural Diversity Report to the
Commission. The Report presents a comprehensive summary of the significant work undertaken
by Bell over the 2015 calendar year towards increasing the representation and reflection ofunder-represented groups on-air and behind the scenes. The Report identifies and details the
participation and representation of these groups in our television and radio divisions, and in our
corporate office.
2.0 INDUSTRY COMMITMENT
2. Bell Media is committed to accurately and fairly reflect the diversity that makes up the
communities we serve through our television and radio services and within our corporate offices.
At every turn, Bell works hard to ensure that our programming meets the needs of Canadians and
target audiences in an accessible and fair manner. We continue to practice cooperation,
inclusion, and respect towards all communities, including ethno-cultural and Aboriginal
communities, and persons with disabilities that make up our culturally diverse nation.
3. Bell Media is committed to maintaining and improving upon our best practices related to
non-stereotypical representation and fair portrayal of Canada's diversity, and actively participates
in industry organizations and working groups in support of this goal.
4. This report provides detailed information on specific efforts from local station initiatives
that support a wide range of Aboriginal community groups and ethno-cultural communities to
national campaigns to increase public awareness about diversity and accessibility issues.
3.0 APPLICATION AND MEASUREMENT
5. The application of promoting diversity and inclusion is lead by Bell's diversity and inclusion
team based in the Organizational Development function. This team develops and executes Bell's
corporate diversity and inclusion strategy with a focus on recruitment, talent management and
stakeholder relations. Working in partnership with the employee services team, they work to
develop and implement Bell's employment equity and mental health strategies, which support
diversity and inclusion.
-
7/24/2019 Bel lMedia Corporate Cultural DiversityReport 2015
5/47
6. The composition of Bell's workforce is at the heart of Bell's diversity and inclusion strategy.
In 2015, the scope of diversity questionnaire was expanded to cover additional underrepresented
groups such as employees providing care and members of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and
Transgender (LGBT) community. Data is analysed monthly and reports in the form of "diversitydashboards" are presented to members of the diversity leadership council enabling them to track
progress against established goals.
7. Bell's Team Survey provides essential feedback to guide Bell's direction and is analysed
by underrepresented group. In 2015, 86% of employees responded favourably to the statement
"People of all backgrounds (cultural, gender, age, religion, disability etc.) can succeed in my
Company". The results have led to significant changes across Bell including enhancements in
career development and recognition programs.
8. As part of the exit interview process, Bell looks at information related to employee's view
of feeling included as a diverse employee in the workplace. This information helps us gauge
whether people felt able to reach their full career potential, regardless of background.
9. New hires are asked to self-identify their membership in the under-represented groups
through a confidential diversity questionnaire as part of the Bell Media orientation program
administered by HR. This tool allows Bell Media to track its efforts in employing and building a
diverse workforce.
10. Application and measurement of diversity objectives take place both at the corporate level
and at each conventional television, pay and specialty service and radio station. Individual
services often have an employee assigned a leadership role on diversity initiatives. The following
are just some examples of the application and measurement efforts at the local station or national
service level:
Each year, CTV Saskatchewan compares its statistics to measure what progress it is
making in achieving its diversity objectives. The station shares job postings with diverse
applicants' organizations and networks like IANE (Interprovincial Association of Native
Employment), it promotes internships to target groups and it hosts open houses and tours
-
7/24/2019 Bel lMedia Corporate Cultural DiversityReport 2015
6/47
for community groups. The station also tracks cultural diversity stories within the
Newsroom for benchmarking purposes.
At CTV London, the Regional Vice President/General Manager and HR Manager
reinforces the importance of cultural diversity initiatives with management groupsthroughout the year. They remind all managers and supervisors at monthly meetings
about the importance of cultural diversity in the station's workforce and in its on-air
presence. The Creative Department also works to ensure that there is a diverse reflection
in locally created commercials and community promotions.
At CTV Barrie, the Regional Vice President/General Manager, Managing Producer
(News), Senior Consultant (Human Resources) and Community Host monitor progress
from year to year to ensure Bell Media properties in Barrie are making progress with their
reflection of Canada's diversity.
In Kitchener (CTV Kitchener, Kool 105.3 and KFUN 99.5), the stations have an active
community diversity advisory group that meets quarterly to review the coverage of diverse
groups. The on-going feedback from the advisory group on treatment and inclusion of
diverse groups in news stories has been a tremendous educational tool used to further
train staff. Observations and recommendations made by the advisory group have been
implemented. Through this association, newsroom staffs are able to consult members of
the advisory group as a resource when covering news stories on both TV and radio.
Bravo!, Comedy, E!, M3, MTV, Much and Spaceare committed and dedicated to being
an industry leader in offering programs that reflects a full range of Canadian diversity
on-screen. With a widely diverse slate of programming, Bell Media ensures that
Canadians see themselves effectively reflected in programs that appeal to a wide range of
age groups and interests. Inside offices and production facilities, the commitment to
diversity is immediately apparent. Further, the Entertainment Specialty group of channels
is committed to maintaining open and measurable lines of communications with its
viewers.
4.0 CORPORATE ACCOUNTABILITY
-
7/24/2019 Bel lMedia Corporate Cultural DiversityReport 2015
7/47
11. The strategy that drives diversity and inclusion across Bell aims to attract, engage and
develop a diverse workforce, one that reflects the marketplace we serve and allows us to meet
targets set out in the Employment Equity Act for the four federally designated groups.
-
7/24/2019 Bel lMedia Corporate Cultural DiversityReport 2015
8/47
12. Bell's diversity leadership council is accountable to drive the adoption of Bell policies and
strategies within the lines of business. Executive members act as champions of diversity and are
responsible for delivering change that is reviewed quarterly. Bell Media is represented by Nanci
Maclean, Vice-President, In-House Production, who works with corporate Human Resource (HR)
to develop, evolve and implement a business-specific plan to deliver Bell's overall diversity andinclusion strategy (including meeting representation targets for women, visible minorities, persons
with disabilities and Aboriginal peoples).
13. Corporate Communications spearheads an internal initiative called "Celebrating Diversity,"
through which important days of religious and cultural significance are highlighted and celebrated
via articles in the internal employee newsletter distributed to all Bell Media employees across the
country. Approximately 12 articles are featured throughout the year, each one informing
employees about the significance of the particular day as well as some interesting facts and ways
to offer best wishes to colleagues on the date being referenced. The "Celebrating Diversity"
articles cover many religions, including Sikhism, Islam, Judaism, Christianity as well as days
celebrating various cultural events such as the Chinese New Year. These articles are also
distributed to mark LGBT-related celebrations such as Pride and other significant days of
recognition such as International Women's Day.
5.0 RECRUITMENT, HIRING AND RETENTION
14. Bell has put in place corporate initiatives and programs designed to broaden the talent
pool and increase the share of four under-represented groups in the workforce. Through the
Diversity Leadership Council, Bell has set internal targets for hiring from under-represented
populations and reviews progress on a regular basis. These requirements have been
communicated to internal and external recruitment teams and all shortlists are required to have at
least one qualified diverse candidate.
15. In 2015, Bell completed the initial stages of employer branding to better attract a diverse
workforce including the addition of the following statement to all external job advertisements:
Bell is committed to fostering an inclusive, equitable, and accessible environment
where all employees and customers feel valued, respected, and supported. We
are dedicated to building a workforce that reflects the diversity of the
communities in which we live and serve, and where every team member has the
opportunity to reach their full potential.
-
7/24/2019 Bel lMedia Corporate Cultural DiversityReport 2015
9/47
16. Bell leverages the recruitment module of the CareerZone applicant tracking system that
allows job seekers to self-identify as being part of an under-represented group. Bell's talent
acquisition team then uses this data to help ensure hiring managers are presented with diverse
slates of candidates.
17. To ensure we are reaching the widest possible talent pool, we ensure job opportunities at
Bell are advertised to Canada's diverse communities through partnerships with Equitek,
AboriginalLink and a number of diversity-focused on-campus student groups.
18. Bell is a founding partner of CareerEdge, a not-for-profit aimed at promoting the
integration of new graduates, internationally qualified professionals and persons with disabilities
through paid internships. In June 2014, Bell was recognized by CareerEdge for our commitment
to the program and our impressive amount of hires.
19. Dedication to attracting and developing top talent across the country, including a focus on
the next generation of women and diverse techcomm leaders through our on-campus recruitment
and grad programs (more than 36% of the current participants of Bell's Grad Program identify as
visible minorities).
20. Several of Bell Media's collective agreements with unions have a clause allowing for
members of diverse groups to be given priority hiring status.
21. Bell's onboarding program, "Welcome to Bell", provides an overview of our commitment to
diversity and inclusion, including a commitment to foster an accessible work environment and
provide reasonable accommodations to employees.
22. In 2015 Bell participated in the Out on Bay Street Career Fair, speaking with new grads
from the LGBT community about career opportunities at Bell. The fair is the only LGBT-focused
event of its kind in Canada.
23. Job postings and the recruiting of candidates are a public and transparent process. Job
openings are posted on the corporate website. People interested in working at Bell Media or
employees who want to grow within Bell are invited to register on the website to automatically
-
7/24/2019 Bel lMedia Corporate Cultural DiversityReport 2015
10/47
receive all job opportunities that meet their selection criteria. As well, the use of social media
tools such as LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter make those opportunities accessible to a large pool
of potential candidates from the designated groups.
24. Some examples of Bell Media's accomplishments in recruiting and retaining staff fromdiverse communities in 2015 are presented in Table A.
Table A
Recruitment, Hiring and Retention
Broadcasters Recruitment, Hiring and Retention
CTV Northern
Ontario
CTV Northern Ontario continues to work at increasing its reach with postings andinvestigating new means of contacting potential candidates. These initiatives arecurrently articulated into two separate agreements with two local Post-secondaryinstitutions, Cambrian and Nipissing University/Canadore College. The agreementsallow CTV Northern Ontario to pool its resources in an effort to attract more Aboriginalyouths to the multi-media industry, influence curriculum and provide meaningfulplacements to the next generation of media personnel. In 2015, CTV Northern Ontariohad one placement student in Sudbury. In 2016, it hopes to increase this number.
Radio Quebec During the recruiting process, job openings are posted on the corporate website(www.bellmedia.ca) under the Career section, allowing the general public to consult all
job openings across the province. People interested in working at Bell Media oremployees who want to grow within Bell are invited to register on the corporate websiteto automatically receive all job offers that meet their selection criteria.
All job openings are also available on the following websites: Emploi- Qubec Specialized sites such as
Infopresse, Grenier aux nouvelles,EspressoJobs, Jobboom, Isarta, etc.
Radio Windsor All managers are encouraged to use the university and college recruitment centres tosearch out staffing possibilities. Managers also follow the Bell Media staffing policies onthe Bell Media web site and at the station. Once hired, all employees are trained fortheir specific responsibilities. Once employees reach a certain point of competence theyare offered additional training/guidance to increase responsibility and to assist inpossible advancement if a higher-level position is available.One of CKLW's program hosts is of Filipino/Chinese descent and a member of the
AM800 Newscentre is an Aboriginal person.CTV Barrie CTV Barrie continues to examine its business and recruitment practices aimed at
removing systemic barriers and creating advertising employment opportunities beyondmainstream media, and to monitoring its progress.Current staffing levels include:
1 part-time diverse employee. (Metis) 1 part time diverse employee (visible minority) 1 part time employee with a physical disability
CTV Barrie provides accommodation to employees who celebrate religious holidays aswell as shift flexibility for employees with disabilities who are unable to attend theworkplace at all times. The station's Senior Consultant for human resource matters is amember of the Human Resources Professionals Association and attends monthlymeetings some of which focus on diversity in the workplace and the accommodation ofemployees with disabilities.
-
7/24/2019 Bel lMedia Corporate Cultural DiversityReport 2015
11/47
5.1 Diversity in Staffing
25. Bell Media's diverse staff includes representatives from all the under-represented groups.
Some examples of Bell's 2015 efforts in diversity in staffing are provided in Table B:
Table B
Diversity in Staffing
Broadcaster Diversity in Staffing
Alberta CTV Alberta's Primetime production workforce consists of 25% visible minorities. InEdmonton, 21 % of Radio Edmonton's Promotional Street Team currently consists ofmembers who are visible minorities. In Calgary it is 20%. These teams are the group'sfront line in the community and at client and charity events.Visible minorities also hold key positions within the Alberta group of stations. In Calgary,for example, key positions such as Morning Show Host, Digital Writer/Producer,
Accounting Officer and Production Operator are all visible minorities.
Saskatchewan In October 2015, CTV Saskatchewan saw two of its First Nations journalists play keyroles in a special forum exploring the relationship between conventional media
journalism and First Nations and Metis culture.CTV Saskatchewan continues to employ an intern to work with our Aboriginal AffairsReporter. The position was originally created in 2006 for a one-year term. The programis a success and CTV Saskatchewan currently employs a young First Nations woman toassist with the production, reporting and hosting of Indigenous Circle.In Saskatchewan, CTV continues to produce Indigenous Circle, a weekly talk showhosted by our Aboriginal Affairs Reporter. The show's mandate is to address timely FirstNations issues, and to spotlight Aboriginal talent and achievement. This reporter alsocovers First Nations and Metis interest stories for daily newscasts around the province.The host/producer of
Indigenous Circleis easily recognized in Saskatchewan not only forthe weekly TV show but also due to the fact that he spends significant time guestspeaking at schools, universities and other public forums about media and Aboriginalissues.Many of CTV Saskatchewan's intern journalists have come from the University ofRegina Journalism degree program. It makes a conscious effort to offer the internshipsto qualified First Nation or visible minority candidates.
BC In 2015, approximately 15% of the radio staff in the Peace region of British Columbiawere visible minorities or Aboriginals.In Terrace, 50% of CFTK-TV's news team were visible minorities.One of the most prominent members of CFTK-TV's team is Robert Pictou. Hepreviously, hosted The Journeynow called Open Connection. He is a member of theMi'kmaw Nation and has been a frequent guest of the station, giving audiences anaccurate understanding of the First Nations issues.
EntertainmentSpecialty group
Space, Comedy,bravo, E!, M3,MTV, Much
The Entertainment Specialty group within Bell Media follows the parent company'sexample and is dedicated to diversity in the workplace. For example, Tyrone "T-RexXx"Edwards is Black Canadian and a host on MUCH and on E!. In addition,
Much Creatorsis a new segment where innovators have a recurring on-air presence on MUCH ascreators of their own YouTube channel(s). They produce their own content and we takethat content and edit it into one-minute hits. Some of these diverse creators are: JusReign (Sikh), Camille Co (Filipino), Naomi Elle (Southeast Asian Canadian), MilaVictoria (Asian Canadian), Rayn Magic (Persian Canadian), and 4 Yall Entertainment(Black Canadians). Overall, the group makes a conscious effort to cast with diversitytop-of-mind so that the people shown on-air reflect the cultural landscape in Canada.
-
7/24/2019 Bel lMedia Corporate Cultural DiversityReport 2015
12/47
Discovery Discovery Channel's flagship show
Daily Planetis committed to equal opportunities forall team members. At Daily Planet, the diversity among the staff fuels the content of theshow. The full-time complement of
Daily Planet's editorial and management staffincludes multi-cultural representation from the Asian, Persian, Latin, and Indo-Canadiancommunities.Ziya Tong, co-host, producer and presenter at Daily Planethas been with the showsince 2009. Of Chinese-Macedonian descent, Ms. Tong's diverse background has beenrecognized through her contribution to the
Daily Planetculture. Alongside co-host, Dr.Dan Riskin, Ms. Tong regularly appears on other Bell Media channels and newsprograms as an expert on science and global innovation.
Fibe TV1 Fibe TV1 is a community-based service of Bell with a goal to empower communities tocreate and share their stories. Working with the community, Fibe TV1 creates a numberof programs that address the needs of the designated groups. For example, theprogram Indigenous Power represents the Aboriginal communities in and aroundMontreal. It has an Aboriginal host and volunteers on the show.The program
Diffrent comme tout le mondeis a show profiling seven different athletesfrom the Special Olympics held in Montreal. There are eight episodes.The program
Sofyhosted by a woman of Caribbean Canadian descent is about herjourney of surviving an organ transplant. The producer of "What's up Montreal?" is of
Middle-Eastern descent and the host Nalie is of Indian and Filipino descent. SamuelBiks is of Haitian descent and produces The Mavensa show on game changers in theMontreal music industry who are paving the way for up and coming artists to succeed.
TSN TSN's on-air talent includes members of a visible minorities. Examples include GurdeepAhluwalia -
SportsCentre co-host
(East Asian),
Jock Clime CFL Analyst
(BlackCanadian),
Duane Forde CFL Analyst (Black Canadian), Jermain Franklin SportsCentre Calgary correspondent
(Black Canadian), Nabil Karim SportsCentreco-host (East Asian), Farhan Lalji SportsCentre Vancouver correspondent (East Asian),John Lu
SportsCentre Montreal correspondent
(Asian), Cabral Richards SportsCentre, Cabbie Presents (Black Canadian)and Milt Stegall - CFL Analyst (BlackCanadian).
Vrak Each week, Vrak Attak informs its youth audience about almost everything that ishappening in Quebec and elsewhere. It features host Nicolas Ouellet who is from
Senegal.
5.2 Accessibility in the Workplace
26. Bell Media continues its efforts to make workplace locations accessible to people with
disabilities. These efforts also extend to accommodations for audience members where
applicable.
5.3 Training and Development
27. BCE's mandatory Code of Business Conduct for all team members underscores our
commitment to diversity and inclusion. The Code of Conduct also informs / updates employees
on our organizational values, such as respect and honesty. All new team members are required
to review the Code and complete the online training associated within seven days of their
-
7/24/2019 Bel lMedia Corporate Cultural DiversityReport 2015
13/47
employment start date. Furthermore, all team members must review the Code annually and
refresh their training every two years.
28. Bell's Diversity training program for team leaders helps support a fully inclusive work
environment. The training course emphasizes the importance of diversity and explains howmanagers can promote diversity and inclusion within their own teams. Over 40 other online
courses on diversity are also available. Bell sets a standard to reach a target of 100 new
participants per year.
29. All people leaders are currently being trained on mental health. This mandatory training
includes specific information and good practice related to promoting mentally healthy workplaces,
role as a leader and the business case for accommodation.
6.0 INTERNSHIPS, MENTORING AND SCHOLARSHIPS
30. We support learning opportunities and mentorship and provides scholarships for students
from diverse backgrounds to pursue careers in the broadcasting industry. Some examples of the
2015 initiatives are summarized in Table C.
Table C
Internships, Mentoring and Scholarships
Broadcaster Internships, Mentoring and Scholarships
CTV Barrie CTV Barrie provides an annual scholarship to a Georgian College student in theAdvertising Program.CTV Barrie regularly provides internship programs to university/college studentsenrolled in broadcast or journalism programs.
CTV Northern
Ontario
Since 1993, CTV Northern Ontario established an endowment fund with eachPost-secondary institution in Northeastern Ontario Cambrian College of Applied Artsand Technology, Canadore College, Northern College and Sault College.The endowment fund is available to Aboriginal students, visible minorities, or personswith disabilities enrolled in the Journalism, General Business, Engineering,
Advertising, or Broadcast-Television and Video Production Programs.CTV and Radio
LondonBell Media in London provides two annual bursaries to high school students through itsBeyond Disabilities Awards, with the successful recipients announced in front of over1000 guests at the London Sports Celebrity Dinner.
Radio
Edmonton
Radio Edmonton provides a music bursary to an Aboriginal Student attending GrantMacEwan College in Edmonton.
-
7/24/2019 Bel lMedia Corporate Cultural DiversityReport 2015
14/47
CTV Calgary CTV Calgary's Manager of Communications and Community Investment volunteered her
time and expertise to the Immigrants of Distinction Awards Selection Committee. These
Awards are sponsored by Immigrant Services Calgary and recognize the significant
achievements of visible minorities in the community.
At CTV Lethbridge, Dory Rossiter, the weather anchor/events coordinator, had fourstudents with mental or physical disabilities spend the day with her at the station.
Radio Windsor Unlike most stations that only go to trade schools, 89X CIMX goes out to schools allover the area to recruit people who want to be a part of the team and the future of thestation.The station currently has interns of Asian, African, American and Mexican descent.Past ethnicities of X-team members have ranged from Asian, African, American to
Arabic. Diversity within the team helps the station to better reach potential listeners.CTV Montreal CTV Montreal again welcomed students for its internship program. These internships,
lasting an average of two months, took place in the News and Sports Departmentswhere students from Concordia University were allowed to learn newsroom procedures,to observe various technical aspects such as newsgathering and production, and tolearn "life on the road" with reporters. One of the interns was a member of a visibleminority.
CTV Atlantic Each year, CTV Atlantic hosts a number of interns with TV technical and production
training, and journalism training at the college or university levels. In 2015, CTV Atlantichosted at least 1,968 hours of internship and job shadowing time from the followinglearning institutions: Kings College Halifax, Nova Scotia Ryerson University Toronto, Ontario Langara College Vancouver, British Columbia NSCC Dartmouth,Nova Scotia and Memorial Composite High School, North Sydney, Nova Scotia. Thispast year the station hosted ten interns, one of whom was a Black Canadian from NovaScotia.
Radio Quebec The Radio Group in Quebec maintains solid relationships with academic institutions thatoffer radio broadcasting studies. For example, each year at the CEGEP in Jonquiere,many of the groups hosts and journalists meet with the students to share their workingknowledge.Program Directors across the province are aware of and sensitive to the promotion ofour industry within all communities. They ensure that this message is part of theirstation's guidelines.
Auditions are held for students including culturally diverse students and they are alloffered an equal chance to obtain an internship in those studios.
Radio
Brockville
Radio Brockville continues to work with Developmental Services in the region to havevolunteers work in our radio station every month.
Fibe TV1 Fibe TV1, a community-based service of Bell Canada, actively searches for interns byreaching out to local colleges and universities. Interns this past year included HlneBauer, Concordia University, and Maryse Bruyre Valiquette, cole du Show Business,both of whom were of Canadian and Middle Eastern descent.
Radio Atlantic The Radio Atlantic group of stations believes firmly that internships and mentoringprovide beneficial pre-professional experience and allow students an opportunity tolearn more about a career path they are interested in. Internships help to begin
developing important networking relationships.Examples include: At CKBC-FM Bathurst, Tristan Grant is from the Pabineau FirstNation. Tristan was an intern in summer of 2015. At CKTO and CKTY Truro, thestations have been involved with the Aboriginal Peoples Training and EmploymentCommission along with the Native Council of Nova Scotia.
CTV
Saskatchewan
2015 saw several internship placements in the CTV Saskatchewan newsrooms. Thestudents were given the opportunity to observe senior news staff, participate ininterviews, and produce reports for newscasts. After six weeks in the internship, thestudent is expected to be functioning as a journalist with the mentorship of a seniornewsperson and the help of the News Directors. Our stations have attracted several
-
7/24/2019 Bel lMedia Corporate Cultural DiversityReport 2015
15/47
students who are visible minorities and CTV Saskatchewan currently employs an internwho is an Aboriginal person.
-
7/24/2019 Bel lMedia Corporate Cultural DiversityReport 2015
16/47
7.0 PROGRAMMING
31. Bell Media offered a wide range of quality news and information, sports and entertainment
programming in 2015 that included the participation and reflection of under-represented groups.
7.1 News and Information Programming
Conventional Television
32. Across the country, Bell Media's television stations presented a wide range of public
affairs and news programming in 2015 that were reflective of ethno-cultural communities,
Aboriginal Peoples and persons with disabilities. A few examples include:
CTV Montreal: CTV Montreal makes a concerted effort in all its news programming to
reflect the diversity of the audience it serves. This means reaching out to as broad a
sample of Montreal's cultural communities as possible. In daily news, its reporters and
producers aim to interview guests and newsmakers from a wide range of cultural
backgrounds, and the content of its features reflect Montreal and the wider population in
all its ethnic diversity. Some samples of stories for 2015 include:
Caf at Cabot Square helps Aboriginal homelessness
Arrival of sponsored Syrian family
Ground breaking for Inuit Community Centre in Dorval
Driving while black, driver claims he was racially profiled by Longueuil police
Vigil for Aboriginal women
CTV Toronto: In 2015, CTV Toronto produced and aired a profile of Grade 11 student
Gavin O'Sullivan who made it to the Ontario Track and Field Championships. O'Sullivan is
blind and runs tethered to a guided companion. In April, CTV Toronto aired a story of a
young autistic Toronto Man who volunteers every day at the Chaminade College library.
CTV Vancouver: In 2015, the station carried a story on the chronic shortage of
wheelchair-accessible taxis in the City of Vancouver.
The station also provided coverage
of a march and ceremony in downtown Vancouver to mark National Aboriginal Veterans
day. CTV Vancouver covered the vigil outside Vancouver City Hall to honour missing and
murdered Aboriginal women and girls in British Columbia.
-
7/24/2019 Bel lMedia Corporate Cultural DiversityReport 2015
17/47
-
7/24/2019 Bel lMedia Corporate Cultural DiversityReport 2015
18/47
CTV Edmonton: In a world where there have been public displays of hatred toward
Muslims due to terror attacks around the world, CTV Edmonton has taken the time to also
focus on positive portrayal of the Muslim community. For example, CTV Edmonton made
a special point of delivering a story on an event that allowed women of all backgrounds to
try on a hijab to get a sense of what it is and why Muslim women choose to wear them. In2015, CTV News Edmonton provided top story coverage to an important news event, the
Truth and Reconciliation Commission. CTV Edmonton also uses numerous experts who
come from diverse backgrounds. Included in this group are: Psychologist Ganz Ferrance
Black Canadian Chef Vinod Lohtia South Asian-Canadian Heath and Wellness
Expert Bianca Osbourne Black Canadian Obesity Expert - Dr. Arya Sharma - Middle
Eastern descent Neurology Expert Dr. Fabrizio Giuliani Middle Eastern descent
Infertility Expert Dr. Tarek Motal Middle Eastern descent.
CTV Atlantic: Diversity issues are regularly covered in the station's main newscast.
Stories covered in 2015 included:
Syrian refugees: One of the main stories that were extensively covered, including
international, national and local stories on the plan to move 25,000 Syrian refugees
to Canada. Maritime organizations from church groups and non-governmental
organizations were interviewed in dozens of stories and interviews.
Residential Schools/Truth and Reconciliation: There were National and Local
stories following the plight of many First Nations people who suffered because ofthe residential schools in past decades.
Bell Let's Talk Day: A story about efforts in one community to reduce the suicide
rate among First Nations people.
Report on a documentary screening in New Brunswick about missing and
murdered indigenous women.
Interview about the Nova Scotia Home for Colored Children with author Wanda
Taylor (Black Canadian).
Interviews and musical performances by various singer/songwriters from the Black
Canadian community.
Interview with Black Canadian boxer about career highlights during the Nova
Scotia Sport Hall of Fame dinner.
-
7/24/2019 Bel lMedia Corporate Cultural DiversityReport 2015
19/47
CTV Northern Ontario: CTV Northern Ontario worked with the group Journalists for
Human Rights to bring their Indigenous Reporters Program to its team of northern
reporters. This program took place in Sudbury, Sault Ste. Marie, North Bay and Timmins
and was attended by all reporters. The purpose was to improve the coverage of
Indigenous stories in Canadian media with a focus on how best to report on the people,the culture and the issues. The workshops covered the proper use of terminology, tips for
effectively reporting on Indigenous communities when you are non-indigenous, the current
state of reporting Indigenous news in Canada, and an overview of Canadian Indigenous
history including relevant legislation and treaty rights. Program examples include the
four-part in-depth series from the Pinkangikum First Nation. This series was recorded in
late October and aired Monday, 30 November 2015 - through Thursday, 3 December
2015. A reporter travelled to a remote community in the far north of Ontario to report on
local Aboriginal youth and the successful programs that are helping in their community.
The series highlighted not only the trials and tribulations of living on a reserve, but also the
good things that are leading to positive outcomes for many young people.
CTV Windsor: Reporter Sacha Long produced a well-received two-part series in November
called Living Blind, which featured a blind couple raising three "seeing" children. CTV
Windsor produced a number of stories in late November and December regarding Syrian
and other refugees in Windsor. Reporter Christie Bezaire produced a story about the
Windsor Police Service's outreach program to multicultural teens in the community. CTVWindsor covered an international Sikh youth symposium in July.
CTV Saskatchewan: CTV Saskatchewan continues to produce Indigenous Circle, a weekly talk
show hosted by the station's Aboriginal Affairs Specialist. APTN (Aboriginal Peoples
Television Network) currently has three reporters located in the CTV Saskatoon station.
Office space and technical support are provided at no cost to APTN.
CTV Kitchener: News coverage at CTV Kitchener this past year has included:
The community's' preparation for Syrian refugees. Stories have featured public
institutions and private citizens giving to those coming to our community as well as
how the region is preparing to manage the influx of people.
-
7/24/2019 Bel lMedia Corporate Cultural DiversityReport 2015
20/47
Coverage of the Six Nations community out of Brantford is frequent. The station
has worked to build a relationship with officials and has been welcomed to the
community routinely over the past year.
The station did a number of features on a family who had a specialized wheelchair
for their son stolen and burned, and the struggles they faced as a result. CTV Kitchener shows the diverse ways its community celebrates from the annual
Multi-cultural festival, to Diwali celebrations, EID AL-ADHA and Ramadan.
CTV Vancouver Island:The CTV newsroom provides a platform for people of all backgrounds to
share their stories, culture, and history with the greater community, encouraging
understanding, acceptance, and celebration of differences. CTV Vancouver Island regularly
bring its viewers coverage of cultural celebrations such as Diwali and Vaisakhi, Chinese
New Year and Black History Month, and it puts a strong focus on mental health awarenessyear-round, with a stronger emphasis during the Bell Let's Talk campaign. For example, as
part of International Persons with Disabilities Day, Zahra Premji featured Richard Harlow
who is working to make Nanaimo a better place to live for people with disabilities. Harlow is
the Board Director of the Nanaimo Disability Resource Centre and although he may be
blind, his goal is to reduce the stigma and discrimination experienced by people with
disabilities. He is encouraging the City of Nanaimo to adopt a new icon to replace the
current disability icon, as part of a larger movement.
Coverage of issues related to people of diverse cultural backgrounds included:
National leaders and Anglican Church representatives joined residential school
survivors, First Nations leaders and community members at a special ceremony to
mark the demolition of the St. Michael's Indian Residential School in Alert Bay BC
on 18 February 2015.
Scott Cunningham introduced viewers to Faten, Aisha and Mouhamed a Syrian
family which is settling into Cowichan Bay BC. They are a family of Syrianrefugees who fled their war-torn country and beat the odds to arrive on Vancouver
Island and are sharing their powerful story.
When a rogue wave capsized a whale watching boat on a tragic October Sunday
in 2015, the first people who rushed to help after the accident were members of the
-
7/24/2019 Bel lMedia Corporate Cultural DiversityReport 2015
21/47
Ahousaht First Nation. Scott Cunningham spoke with Ahousaht First Nation
community member Clarence Smith, who pulled 13 people from the water.
-
7/24/2019 Bel lMedia Corporate Cultural DiversityReport 2015
22/47
National News
33. There are many similar examples on the national front through CTV newscasts and the
award-winning public affairs show W5. For example:
CTV News aired a story on 3 November 2015 entitled "First Nations Canadians
Hopes for the Future but Clouded by Past". It was a look at opening day at the
National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation (NCTR). The NCTR was created to
preserve the memory of Canada's Residential School system and legacy.
On 12 October 2015, CTV News aired a story on voter turn out. Unlike many
polling stations overrun with voters eager to cast their ballots, the Humber
River-Black Creek electoral region is quiet. Historically, the mostly immigrant and
low income Toronto riding has had one of the lowest voter turnouts in the country.
CTV News featured a story on 24 July 2015 on Waneek Horn-Miller, Canada's
Assistant Chef de Mission at the Pan Am Games. Horn-Miller scored three goals
for Canada to win gold in water polo at the 1999 Pan-Am games. But that warrior
spirit was not born in the pool. In 1990, Horn-Miller, a Mohawk from Kahnawake,
was stabbed by a soldier's bayonet during the Oka crisis. Suffering from PTSD
after her near-death experience, Horn-Miller's mother challenged her to follow her
sporting dreams.
This year, Canada AM did an audit in the spring on its guests and how many weremembers of Canada's Aboriginal and visible minority communities. Then, it
tracked that number over four months, and compared it to Canada's census
numbers. It did this to see where it could identify strengths and deficiencies in the
kinds of stories it was telling, and whom it was talking to in those communities. As
a result of this audit, Canada AM was able to better focus on stories and guests
that more accurately reflect Canada's diverse population.
Specialty TV
34. Bell Media's specialty news channels, CTV News Channel and CP24, provided coverage
of a number of national and regional events that were reflective of the designated groups. A few
examples include:
-
7/24/2019 Bel lMedia Corporate Cultural DiversityReport 2015
23/47
CTV News Channel: During the Federal Election Campaign, CTV News Channel provided
coverage that included panel discussions of campaign promises and policies with a
cross-section of Canadians. Panelists included: Goldie Ghamari, legal advisor, Natasha
Bakht, law professor at the University of Ottawa specializing in law, culture and minority
rights, Avvy Go, lawyer at the Metro Toronto Chinese and Southeast Asian Legal Clinicand Raheel Raza, President of the group "Muslims Facing Tomorrow" to name a few.
CTV News Channel also provided coverage of the niqab debate. Commentators included:
Amira Elghawaby of the National Council of Canadian Muslims, Zunera Ishaq, the woman
who launched a lawsuit after a court ruled that she would not be allowed to wear the niqab
during her citizenship ceremony, and Sam Hamad, the Quebec Minister of Labour. CTV
News Channel provided live extended coverage on the final report on residential schools
by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission as well as the plight of refugees and their
efforts to immigrate to Canada.
CP24: CP24 provided extensive coverage of the Scotiabank Caribbean Festival in
Toronto. CP24 hosted a party in its parking lot in celebration of the Carnival. CP24 was
the exclusive media sponsor for the event. CP24 proudly supported Bell's 'Let's Talk' Day.
In 2015, coverage featured a number of guests sharing their mental health journey with
viewers. Topics included PTSD with a Chief Warrant Officer, Cyber Bullying with April
Reimer, Mental Health in Policing, Bullying in Schools, etc. The interviews were aimed at
getting the conversation going and focusing on a variety of issues in an attempt to helppeople understand different mental health issues. From 7 August 2015 to 15 August 2015
Toronto hosted the Parapan Am Games and CP24 brought viewers coverage of the issues
surrounding the games. In December, CP24's Arda Zakarian visited a mosque in Maple,
Ontario where an Open House was held aimed at removing misconceptions about the
hijab. CP24 was also there as Canada welcomed its first group of government-sponsored
Syrian Refugees in December 2015.
Radio
35. Local radio stations remain closely connected to the communities they serve. Providing
local news and information that is reflective of their communities and supporting community
initiatives is at the heart of what they do. Some examples include:
-
7/24/2019 Bel lMedia Corporate Cultural DiversityReport 2015
24/47
Windsor AM800 CKLW: Each year, AM800 News covers the Windsor-Essex Multicultural
Council's Herb Gray Harmony Award. The award is named after one of Canada's
longest-serving MPs from Windsor and recognizes an individual in the community for efforts
to promote peace and harmony among diverse groups.
Bathurst CKBC-FM: There is a good working relationship between the news department
and Rose Kryszko, economic development manager of Pabineau First Nations. The station
also reaches out to Chief David Peter-Paul for comment on stories pertaining to, or of
interest to, local First Nations. Pabineau First Nations resident and addictions councilor
Nicholas Prisk has also given comment for stories.
Truro CKTO-FM and CKTY-FM: Examples of news stories this past year included: an item
on four local facilities who were among 23 across Nova Scotia to split over $116,000 in
funding to improve accessibility the release of a report on Canada's failure to address the
high rates of missing and murdered Aboriginal women the towns of Truro and New
Glasgow hosted African Heritage Month launch events the story of alleged abuse at the
Nova Scotia Home for Coloured Children a Mi'kmaq man from Cole Harbour announced his
candidacy for the National Chief of the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples and, the signing of
an interim agreement on the proposed expansion of Sydney marine terminal between the
Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi'kmaq Chiefs and the Cape Breton Regional Municipality.
Fredericton CIBX-FM, CFXY-FM and CKHJ-FM: Two Fredericton residents were in the
running for the seventh annual RBC Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Awards. UNB professor
Dhirendra Shukla and landscaping entrepreneur Leticia De Gante were two of the top 75
finalists for the award, which recognized inspirational immigrants who have come to
Canada, achieved success, and made a positive difference living here.
Quebec City NRJ 98.9 and Rouge fm 107.5: The issue of the Aboriginal women assaulted in the
Abitibi region was covered. An interview was conducted with the Huron-Wendat Chief
Konrad Sioui about this issue. The news team also covered the Wendake Pow Wow this
summer.
Saguenay NRJ 94.5 and Rouge fm 96.9: Pierre Hbert was interviewed about his show Gang
de maladies in which he showcases persons with disabilities. Every morning, there is a
segment called "'The Celebrity Wall"' where an organization or a cause is featured in order
-
7/24/2019 Bel lMedia Corporate Cultural DiversityReport 2015
25/47
to raise awareness. On several occasions, the stations talked about organizations that
provide help to ethno cultural minorities and persons with disabilities.
Montreal CJAD 800: News items included a Black History Month special Hosted by Malik
Shaheed various panel discussions about racial profiling on The Tommy SchnurmacherShow interviews with various guests about the missing Aboriginal women crisis and a
reaction to the Truth and Reconciliation report on residential schools reports on a man who
claimed an alleged incident of "driving while black" on Montreal's South Shore and news
reports on the redesign and reopening of Cabot Square now designed to integrate and
assist members of Montreal's Aboriginal communities.
Abitibi NRJ 99.1 and NRJ 102.7: News items included coverage of the relations between
Aboriginal persons and the Val-d'Or police force last fall, coverage of the immigration of
foreign students at the Universit du Qubec en Abitibi-Tmiscamingue and the integration
of Chinese students in Abitibi.
BC InteriorCJFW-FM, CFTK, CHTK-FM and CKTK-FM: This group of radio stations has a
large First Nations audience and is broadcast throughout Northwestern BC, reaching the
traditional territories of the Nisga'a, Haida, Tsimshian, Haisla, Gitxsan, Wetsueten and
Tahltan bands. The news department focuses on covering stories and events that highlight
the First Nations communities they serve.
For example, the AM1150 Newsroom covers stories applicable to the resident Westbank
First Nations band and their issues as well as news on their continuing community projects
and buildings.
All of the Kelownastations participated in Mental Health Week with interviews and stories
both on air and online.
In
Penticton, news stories covered in 2015 included: economic plans for Locatee lands,sockeye salmon release, and continued development at Skaha Hills for a casino.
In the Peaceregion, the station covered an event, which showcased local and international
artists hosted by the Library and the Aboriginal Education Centre. It covered the festivities
that celebrated National Aboriginal Day and the 10th Annual Paddle for the Peace where
member of local First Nations showed their disapproval of the Site C Project by kayaking
-
7/24/2019 Bel lMedia Corporate Cultural DiversityReport 2015
26/47
and canoeing down the Peace River.
In Terrace, highlights in 2015 included coverage of the on-going question of safety along
the "Highway of Tears" (Highway 16 between Prince Rupert and Prince George), with
particular attention to the murders or disappearances of Aboriginal women and girls. Thisincluded coverage of a one-day forum on First Nations Health and Safety in Smithers in
November, and the resulting funding announced by the BC Government in December.
7.2 Sports Programming
36. TSN, TSN Radio and RDS are the primary vehicles amongst Bell Media's services for
sports programming. Each of these services provides programming that reflects Canada's
ethno-cultural communities, Aboriginal peoples and persons with disabilities.
37. On TSN, for example, a few examples include:
Sameer Fathazada In 2008, 12 year-old Sameer escaped with his family from
Afghanistan. In order to assimilate into Canadian culture, he started playing soccer. His
skills improved to the point the Canadian National Soccer team demonstrated interest. In
order to play, Sameer needed to become a Canadian citizen. On his behalf, Immigration
and Citizenship Canada expedited the process in 2015.
Membertou First Nation Reserve Residents of this First Nation Reserve on Cape Breton
Island created a boxing club with the help of two men from off the reserve. Cultures
collided but the positive benefits for the men of Membertou meant an improved outlook on
lifestyle and health.
Spencer Miller has had cerebral palsy since childhood and is now at 34, a motivational
speaker.
He has a good rapport with some baseball stars going back to his days with
Roberto Alomar in the Blue Jays' glory years. TSN.ca published some content from
Spencer earlier this year including a one-on-one with Boston's David Ortiz in May.
38. In 2015, RDS aired a number of programs featuring stories about Aboriginal peoples, such
asAventure Grand'eau Nature, and the documentaryAnother Way.
-
7/24/2019 Bel lMedia Corporate Cultural DiversityReport 2015
27/47
39. RDS also provided coverage of the World Games, which featured athletes with disabilities.
It aired a documentary on Chantal Petitclerc, one of Canada's most celebrated Paralympic
athletes. RDS provided daily coverage of the Dfi Sportif AlterGo in Sports 30. This is an
important international competition involving athletes with mental or physical disabilities.
40. RDS also actively participates in Bell's national mental illness awareness program BellLet's Talk, by including relevant interviews and features in high profile properties such as
Le
hockey des Canadiens, Sports 30, Le 5 7, Hockey 360 and L'Antichambre.
41. On TSN Radio in Calgary for example, many visible minority sports personalities are
featured such as Ed Hervey, Dikembe Mutombo, Andrew Jones, Donovan Bailey, Candace
Chapman, Farhan Lalji, Duane Ford, Cabral Richards, Gurdeep Ahluwalia, Jermaine Franklin,
Jock Clime, Milt Stegal, Warren Moon to name just a few. The station also represents diversity
through on air public service announcement campaigns. In 2015 these included:
Special Olympics PSA Campaign June 6, 2015 August 7, 2015 100 PSA's
TSN 1260
Heritage Fest PSA Campaign May 18th, 2015 June 14th, 2015 44 PSA's
TSN 1260
42. In Montreal, TSN 690 featured various discussions about the debate over sports team
names and logos that some consider racist (Redskins, Eskimos, etc.). It also did an in-studiointerview with Paralympian Benoit Huot in support of the Parapan AM Games.
7.3 Entertainment Programming
Radio
43. Bell Media's music-based radio stations play a fundamental role in their communities
showcasing and promoting the music and culture of people from the designated groups. Forexample:
Abitibi NRJ 99.1 and NRJ 102.7: The stations have a partnership with the FRIMAT and the FME
festivals, which present world music content reflecting cultural diversity. It is also a major
partner of the Festival du cinma international in Abitibi-Tmiscamingue.
-
7/24/2019 Bel lMedia Corporate Cultural DiversityReport 2015
28/47
Trois-Rivires NRJ 102.3 and Rouge fm 94.7: The stations covered Le Mondial des cultures de
Drummondville festival and the activities of the Abenakis Museum of Wolinak. The stations
also covered the arrival of Syrian refugees in the Mauricie region and the Marche mondiale
des femmes 2015 with members of various cultural communities.
Montreal: On Rouge fm 107.3, the station carried the full FrancoFolies concert of
Boukman Eksperyans, a group from the Antilles, which honours the traditional voodoo and
rara rhythms by mixing them with rock, Jamaican Reggae and pop. This group is a legend
from Haiti and a true value for world music. On CHOM 97, the morning show interviewed
Jonas and the Massive Attraction, a Montreal band featuring Corey Diablo, a musician of
Aboriginal descent. As well, the Black Cat Alley program premiered the first radio airplay of
legally blind Montreal blues artist, Paolo Sant. The station regularly spins tracks from
Montreal band, Elephant Stone, led by Rishi Dihr, an artist of Indian descent whoincorporates elements of traditional Indian music in his songs. On Virgin 96, the station
musically supported Montreal artists Lukay, who is of Black Canadian descent, Montreal
artist Karl Wolf, who is of Lebanese descent and Toronto artists The Weeknd and Drake,
who are of Black Canadian descent.
Halifax: CJCH-FM and C100FM provide a rhythmic Contemporary Hit Radio (CHR) format
and a hot Adult Contemporary (AC) format, respectively. This music is culturally diverse
with a large number of the artists featured being visible minorities including artists such asRihanna, Taio Cruz, Drake, Bruno Mars, Beyonce, Chris Brown, FeFe Dobson, Jrdn, Flo
Rida, K'Naan, Alisha Keys, K-OS, Nicki Minaj, John Legend, Lil Jon and Kardinal Offishall.
In addition, C100FM and CJCH FM have done live remote broadcasts to showcase such
local events as the APTN Aboriginal Day, the Multi-Cultural Festival and the Lebanese
Festival.
Bathurst CKBC-FM: The station did cut-ins from the Pabineau Pow Wow celebrating
Indigenous culture. In addition, the station program Community Profile showcased diverse
people in the Chaleur Region including Tristan Grant a First Nations hip-hop artist.
Fredericton CIBX-FM: Capital FM provides a rhythmic CHR format. This music is culturally
diverse with artists such as Rihanna, Taio Cruz, Drake, Bruno Mars, Anjuli, Beyonce, Chris
Brown, FeFe Dobson, Jrdn, Flo Rida, K'Naan, Alisha Keys, K-OS, Nicki Minaj and Kardinal
Offishall.
-
7/24/2019 Bel lMedia Corporate Cultural DiversityReport 2015
29/47
Calgary Funny 1060AM: Multiple visible minority comedians are featured on
Funny 1060AM, including Russell Peters, Kevin Hart, Eddie Murphy, Tracy Morgan, Darryl
Lennox, Ken Jeong, Marlon Wayans, Aziz Ansari, Gabriel Iglesias, Dave Chappelle, Kumail
Nanjiani, Hannibal Buress, Trent McClellan, Lamont Ferguson, and Sterling Scott to name afew.
Kelowna: Sun FM is always available to interview all artists. Some that have been
interviewed on the air this year include Raghav Juyal and Kuba Oms both East Indian
Canadians. The station plays music from a diverse group of artists including the above as
well as Shawn Mendes, Classified, Karl Wolf, Kardinal Offishall and more. The stations
serving the region are sponsors of the annual Park's Alive music festival throughout the
summer. This event features a diverse group of musicians from throughout the immediate
area and across the country. Sun FM also proudly sponsors a high profile event, Bollywood
Bang, which is enormously popular in the Indo-Canadian community. It celebrates culture
Bollywood style. It includes food, entertainment, and formal Indian attire.
Salmon Arm, Revelstoke and Golden EZ Rock stations CKXR-FM, CKCR-FM and
CKGR-FM: Heading into its 24th year, the Salmon Arm Roots and Blues festival has long
ago established itself as one of the summer destination spots for fans and lovers of music
ranging from blues to bluegrass, celtic to Cuban and Americana to Afro-beat. EZ Rock has
proudly sponsored the Festival which has grown into a major western Canadian musical
event, hosting patrons from all over western Canada and the Pacific North West, and
featuring musicians from around the world. Roots and Blues is likely one of the most diverse
music and cultural festivals in Canada.
Television
44. In its production and acquisition of programs, CTV is sensitive to ensuring that its
entertainment programming reflects the realities of the designated groups. To illustrate this, here
are some examples:
4 Paths To Peace: Inspiration from the Dalai Lama: A documentary celebrating the
Dalai Lama's visit to Canada. An up close look at the Dalai Lama, his lessons from
Buddhism, and his messages of compassion and peace. The program stars Jenifer
-
7/24/2019 Bel lMedia Corporate Cultural DiversityReport 2015
30/47
-
7/24/2019 Bel lMedia Corporate Cultural DiversityReport 2015
31/47
A Sorry State: A documentary that examines one of the world's ongoing and most
controversial questions: What does it mean when a nation says, "We're sorry"? Every
country has dirty secrets from the past internment, apartheid, genocide. Some have
lingered unaddressed for generations. It features interviews with Japanese Canadians who
were in internment camps during World War II and First Nations people removed from theirhomes and sent to Christian schools.
MasterChef Canada: A reality game show. It features amateur chefs competing to
become the best amateur home cook in Canada. This season it featured Alawn Lai
Japanese, (Home Cook), Jose Torres South American (Home Cook), Jasdeep Sra, Indian
(Home Cook), Terry Adido, Nigerian (Home Cook), Zhara Mian, East Indian (Home Cook),
Veronica Cham, Asian (Home Cook), Matthew Astorga, Filipino (Home Chef) and Jeremy
Senaris, Filipino (Home Chef).
Partition: A movie where 38 year old Gian Singh resigns from the British Indian Army to a
quiet life. His world is soon thrown in turmoil, when he suddenly finds himself responsible
for the life of a 17 year-old girl, traumatized by the events that separated her from her
family. They battle the forces that haunt their innocent love, fighting the odds to survive in a
world surrounded by hate. The movie features Jimi Mistry (Indian and Irish descent), Kristin
Kreuk (Chinese and Dutch descent), Irrfan Khan (Indian) and Madhur Jaffrey (Indian).
The Lost Years: A documentary touching upon 150 years of the Chinese diaspora in
Canada, USA, New Zealand and Australia, covering four generations of racism as revealed
through the journey and family story of Kenda Gee. Kenda travels with his father to China
to retrace the steps of his great-grandfather, exactly a century ago, and grandfather, who
sailed to Canada in the summer of 1921. For thousands of Chinese immigrants that year, it
was a journey of hope that turned into a nightmare when they were confronted with racism
and the head tax, depriving them of their rights as citizens. It featured Kenda Gee
(Chinese-Canadian).
The Marilyn Denis Show: A daytime talk show hosted my Marilyn Denis with a
lifestyle-oriented focus. Regular contributors to the show include: Roger Mooking
(Trinidadian Canadian), Samantha Monpetit-Huynh (African Canadian), Brent Bishop
(African Canadian), Mubina Jiwa (South Asian Canadian), Justin German (African
Canadian), and Aly Velji (South Asian Canadian).
-
7/24/2019 Bel lMedia Corporate Cultural DiversityReport 2015
32/47
45. The same approach applies to the programming produced and acquired by Bell Media's
entertainment-based pay and specialty channels. For example:
Canada Rocks! 12 Years of etalk at the JUNOs:
An
etalk special that recapped all thered carpets, performers, and winners from 12 years of JUNO awards. The show was
hosted by Traci Melchor (Black Canadian), Lainey Lui (Chinese Canadian) and Jully Black
(Black Canadian).
Celebrity Style Story: tells the story of one celebrity's style evolution through their
unforgettable hair, makeup and fashion choices. The show features various celebrities
including Kerry Washington (Black Canadian) and Penelope Cruz (Spanish American).
Orphan Black:
Orphan Black airs on Space. After witnessing a woman's suicide, Sarah
assumes her identity hoping that cleaning out the dead woman's bank account will solve all
of her problems. Instead, the street-smart chameleon is thrust headlong into a kaleidoscopic
mystery. The show features Kevin Hanchard (Black Canadianas a principal cast member.
Also on Space, Killjoysfollows a fun-loving, hard living trio of interplanetary bounty hunters
sworn to remain impartial as they chase deadly warrants throughout the Quad, a distant
system on the brink of a bloody, multiplanetary class war. It stars Hannah John Kamen
(Nigerian-English).
Spun Out, Season 2: Also on the Comedy Network, Dave Foley stars as the patriarchal
boss of a fledging PR firm, staffed with people who can spin everyone's problems but their
own. This series stars Al Mukadam (Pakistani Canadian) and Jayden Wong (Asian
Canadian).
Just for Laughs: Each episode features comedic performances at Montreal's acclaimed
Just for Laughs Festival. Many up-and-coming talents as well as established comedianscome together at the festival. Many of the comedians featured are visible minorities.
19-2: Airing on Bravo, this character-driven drama revolves around the day-to-day life of
two unwilling partners of the Montreal Police Department, Officers Nick Barron and Ben
Chartier. This series stars Adrian Holmes (Black Canadian) and features Benz Antoine
(Black Canadian), Conrad Pla (Black Canadian) and Mylene Dinh-Robic (Asian-Canadian).
-
7/24/2019 Bel lMedia Corporate Cultural DiversityReport 2015
33/47
Motive: A feisty Vancouver homicide detective tracks down the most cunning of killers by
trying to figure out the motive to the crime. Series stars Roger Cross (Black Canadian) and
ValerieTian (Chinese Canadian).
Degrassi, Season 14: Airing on MTV, this season on Degrassi, people are changing.
Relationships are changing. Futures are changing. Just when you think you know someone,
you realize -- you don't. This season continued to feature a diverse cast including Melinda
Shankar (Indo-Canadian), Demetrious Joyette (Black Canadian), AJ Saudin
(African-Canadian), Ana Golja (Latin Canadian), Ricardo Hoyos (Latin Canadian), and
Andre Kim (Asian-Canadian). In addition, the character of Connor (AJ Saudin) has
Asperger's syndrome.
Daily Planet: is the Discovery Channel's flagship show. Its featured studio guests and expert
interview subjects are sought from the global community. The team at Daily Planet is
passionate about producing content that reflects diversity in all its aspects. They believe it is
important that diversity is reflected in the programming they deliver to audiences. The
show's creative development crew is led by a diverse management team who guide and
assist them in their various endeavors and work together to bring Daily Planet to the
forefront of today's game changers from all aspects of social, cultural, physical and ethnic
walks of life. The program features studio guests and expert interview subjects who are
drawn from a global community, featuring guests that are the very best in their fields and
are diverse in capabilities, gender, ethnic and cultural backgrounds.
On Discovery, Airshow takes viewers behind the scenes of the most dangerous part-time
profession on the planet. This is a business where competition is high and pilots are forced
to push their planes through severe weather and mechanical problems to get to that next
payday. From the ground, it's glamorous. In the cockpit, it's a G-inducing grind where
pushing weather, pushing tin, and pushing your body is a must. Dan Buchanan is an
Airshow performer and is a paraplegic.
Jade Fever: also on Discovery, is a documentary series about the Canadian and Chinese
cultures coming together in the search for the precious gemstone, jade. The show is set in
the northern British Columbia town of Jade City a small community of 30 led by the town
matriarch Claudia Bunce. T he series is anchored on the search by Claudia and her
-
7/24/2019 Bel lMedia Corporate Cultural DiversityReport 2015
34/47
Chinese business partners for a windfall of jade to sell into the lucrative Chinese market.
The backdrop for the show includes the cross-cultural opportunities and challenges that
arise as well as Claudia's own struggle as a woman to lead a mining operation in this
male-dominated industry.
On Discovery Science, the program Outrageous Acts of Science is a fast-paced series
that scours the Web for the best self-appointed scientists whose homegrown research --
mind-boggling experiments, extraordinary inventions and jaw-dropping scientific stunts --
has gone viral. Hour-long episodes count down the best clips, supported by a team of
actual scientists who analyze the principles behind the backyard shenanigans. The expert
panel features thought leaders from a variety of ethnic backgrounds, and across many
disciplines of science such as Sujata Kundu, a Materials Physicist of Indian descent and
Hakeem Oluseyi, an Astrophysicist and an African-American.
On TMNand HBO Canada, a significant number of films were aired that addressed issues
relevant to the designated groups or featured people from those groups. Examples include:
The Closer You Get to Canada - Stars Gordon Tootoosis (Aboriginal person)
Dr. Cabbie the story of a young Indian immigrant doctor.
Empire of Dirt Stars Cara Gee, Shay Eyre, and Jennifer Podemski who are all
Aboriginal persons Home Again Written and Directed by Black CanadianSudz Sutherland and
starring African American Tatyana Ali and Black Canadian actress CCH Pounder
Inch'Allah Stars a primarily Middle Eastern cast
Inescapable Stars Sudanese actor Alexander Siddig
Lesser Blessed a teen First Nations member trying to find his place in the
modern world
Maina Stars an entirely Indigenous cast including Reneltta Arluk, Tantoo
Cardinal, and Graham Greene Midnight's Children Written and Directed by South Asian Deepa Mehta and stars
South Asian actors Rajat Kapoor, Vansh Bhardwaj, and Anupam Kher
My Awkward Sexual Adventures Supporting cast includes Vik Sahay (South
Asian-Canadian) and
http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0687946/?ref_=tt_ov_sthttp://www.imdb.com/name/nm3009874/?ref_=tt_ov_sthttp://www.imdb.com/name/nm4446254/?ref_=tt_ov_st -
7/24/2019 Bel lMedia Corporate Cultural DiversityReport 2015
35/47
-
7/24/2019 Bel lMedia Corporate Cultural DiversityReport 2015
36/47
with Canal D. His third film will be shot in the coming months and will contain to include the
participation and support of Canal D.
8.0 COMMUNITY AND INDUSTRY OUTREACH
46. Bell is an active member of SABAR - Strategic Alliance of Broadcasters for Aboriginal
Reflection an organization set-up to facilitate the opportunities for increased Aboriginal
participation in the Canadian broadcasting industry. Brent Chamberlain, Associate Director of
Diversity and Inclusion, sits on the organization's advisory council.
47. Through sponsorships, on-air promotion and fundraising, Bell supports and promotes a
wide range of community events and festivals that encourage representation among diverse
groups both at the service level and the corporate level.48. In 2015, Bell's local radio and television stations partnered with a number of organizations
with the goal of celebrating diversity. Below are examples of some key initiatives in community
and industry outreach.
8.1 Bell Media Local Services
49. In 2015, Bell Media's local radio and television stations partnered with a number of
organizations with the goal of celebrating diversity. Below are examples of some key initiatives incommunity and industry outreach.
CTV Atlantic plays an integral part in promoting and providing financial support within its
community. Listed below are the numerous events and sponsorship associations that have
been supported within the community: Progress Club Sports Dinner featured an event video
with residents at King's Meadow for Mentally Challenged Adults Grocery Gala featured the
story of a biracial family Progress Club Big Spring Auction featured a patient story of a teen
with a physical disability Autism Nova Scotia featured an event video of teens with autism
and developmental delays the Great Big Dig event video featured children with disabilities.
London: Bell Media TV and Radio in London are founding sponsors of the annual Sunfest
multi-cultural festival of music and arts, which held its 21st consecutive event in July 2015.
The annual free festival is one of Canada's largest with over 200,000 attendees over the
-
7/24/2019 Bel lMedia Corporate Cultural DiversityReport 2015
37/47
four day outdoor event. Sunfest also runs art exhibitions and paid music performances
throughout the year, which Bell Media also sponsors.
CTV Edmonton: CTV Edmonton supported a range of community initiatives through its
Community Calendar Announcements, PSAs or on-site reporting. Examples include:
40th Servus Heritage Festival: 60 ethnic pavilions representing over 85 cultures
come together for a 3-day multicultural celebration.
Lunar New Year Extravaganza: The Edmonton Chinatown Multicultural Centre
promotes Chinese culture, encourages cultural exchanges amongst all ethnic
groups, and enhances community social welfare. The two-day fun-filled
extravaganza at West Edmonton Mall Ice Palace includes entertainment, a ribbon
cutting ceremony, cultural displays and shopping.
-
7/24/2019 Bel lMedia Corporate Cultural DiversityReport 2015
38/47
National Black Coalition of Canada Society: Black History Month Festival is an
event that provides cultural education by inviting the community at large to learn,
support and embrace multiculturalism and diversity enhancing community
wellness. Several events are scheduled that promote positive cross cultural
interaction, cross cultural dialogue and cross cultural engagement whichencourages and supports the positives and successes of the Black Community.
Edmonton Radio: The radio team is actively involved with Edmonton's Heritage Festival,
which is an annual three-day showcase of Canada's vibrant multicultural heritage. In 2015,
there were over 60 pavilions representing over 85 cultures. The station partners with the
Festival and provides significant promotional value (airtime PSA's and live on location
broadcasts/website exposure. As well, this year the station raised $26,000 in donations for
Metis Child and Family Services, to fund two Junior High School lunch programs.
Calgary Radio: The station is a sponsor of Calgary's annual GlobalFest, a not-for-profit
society dedicated to celebrating and showcasing Calgary's cultural diversity and artistic
excellence. The station provides the Society with significant promotional value (PSA's,
interviews, digital elements, on-air/website exposure, on location, hosting, etc.). Other
community partnerships include Carifest Caribbean Festival, Expo Latino, Fiestaval and
Reggaefest to name a few.
CTV Montreal: On an ongoing basis, CTV Montreal endeavors to assist all local charitable,
non-profit and community associations by providing no charge airtime in which to advertise
their events and fundraising campaigns or to raise general awareness to their cause. In
addition to airtime, CTV Montreal also supports and participates in many community events
organized by these associations, societies and cultural groups. CTV Montreal also actively
acknowledges the diversity of our audience by airing messages that pay tribute to holidays
in cultural communities. In 2015 the following organizations were supported with no charge
PSA airtime: ALS Society (Ice Bucket Challenge campaign in support of Lou Gehrig's
disease) Autism Speaks ( an advocacy organization dedicated to funding research into the
causes, prevention, treatments and a cure for autism) Dfi Sportif (an international event
assembling athletes from the elite to the newcomers with all types of disabilities) Guzzo
Foundation Notte in Bianco (a fundraising event benefiting mental health) and, the Taste
of the Caribbean, Quebec's premier Caribbean cultural event with a feast of food, music and
-
7/24/2019 Bel lMedia Corporate Cultural DiversityReport 2015
39/47
arts from over 20 Caribbean nations including Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados,
Haiti, Dominican Republic, Grenada, Cuba and many more.
Montreal Radio: In collaboration with Montreal Community Cares charity, CJAD 800 profiles a
community "hero" each month on-air and on-line. Many monthly heroes have beenmembers of visible minority communities. Rouge fm is a partner of the Festival Nuits
d'Afrique which featured five days of outdoor African music performances in the heart of the
entertainment district. The station goes on the premises and broadcasts messages
promoting the Festival for two weeks.
Saguenay Radio NRJ 94.5 and Rouge fm 96.9: The stations are a major partner of the
cultural event Festival des rythmes du monde. This is a perfect opportunity to showcase
the different communities that make up today's Quebec. The music, the culture and the
talent of the Festival's participants are showcased on radio stations during the ten days of
the event. As well, the people of Lac-Saint-Jean had the chance to experience the Tam
Tam Macadam event. This is a highly popular annual festive event for the regional
population, which showcases the cultures of the world and creates awareness of local and
international issues.
CTV Vancouver Island: The station has partnered with a number of organizations throughout
Vancouver Island to celebrate diverse cultures and people. Examples include:
Black History Month (Month of February): The Nanaimo African Heritage Society
presented a month of events and workshops celebrating the diversity of African
cultures.
Vaisakhi Mela (April 12): The India Canada Cultural Association of Victoria
welcomed the public to Vaisakhi Mela an event filled with traditional Indian foods
and entertainment.
Aboriginal Cultural Festival (June 19 21): The Songhees and Esquimalt Nations
celebrated National Aboriginal Day weekend with traditional music, dance, food
and arts.
India Mela (August 7 9): Hosted by the India Canada Cultural Association in
Victoria. A colourful and multi-cultural joyful celebration of life. It celebrates the
richness and diversity of India's arts and culture through three fun-filled days of
music, dance, fashion, palmistry and much more.
-
7/24/2019 Bel lMedia Corporate Cultural DiversityReport 2015
40/47
-
7/24/2019 Bel lMedia Corporate Cultural DiversityReport 2015
41/47
Carving on the Edge Festival (August 29 September 10): Celebrated the diverse
West Coast First Nations carvers. The event showcases traditional and
contemporary West coast wood carving with exhibits, forums, feasts, family
programs and demonstrations.
Japanese Cultural Fair (October 24): The Victoria Nikkei Cultural Society (VNCS)hosted this free event featuring traditional Japanese entertainment, including
dancing, Taiko drumming, live music, martial arts, ikebana flower arrangements, a
Japanese tea ceremony, and traditional calligraphy.
VancouverCTV and 94.5 Virgin Radio, 103.5 QMFM, TSN 1040 and TSN 1410: These stations
promoted and/or participated in the following local fundraising and community events this
year:
ALS Society of BC Richmond/Vancouver Walk for ALS (Virgin/QM), 29th annual
ALS Memorial Golf Tournament (TSN), and the 10th annual PGA of BC Golfathon
for ALS (TSN)
Alzheimer Society of BC Mount Kilimanjaro Grouse Grind for Alzheimer's (QM)
BC Centre for Ability Dining For Dreams Gala (CTV)
Canucks Special Olympics Gala - TSN
Caribbean Days Festival (Virgin/QMFM)
Cerebral Palsy Association of BC (CTV) Chinatown Festival (CTV/Virgin)
CNIB Night Steps (CTV/Virgin)
MS Society of Canada (MS Walk, MS Bike Tour, MS Golf Challenge, SnapQuest
MS) (CTV/Virgin/QMFMTSN)
Muscular Dystrophy Canada (QMFM/Virgin)
Richmond Centre for Disability (CTV)
Special Olympics BC TSN
8.2 Bell Media National Services
50. Community outreach is also important on the national stage. Bell Media's national
specialty services supported a number of important initiatives in 2015 related to the designated
groups.
-
7/24/2019 Bel lMedia Corporate Cultural DiversityReport 2015
42/47
51. For example, Programming Executives who work across Bell Media channels address
diversity in programming through discussions at various events as well as pitch meetings. Among
other events this year, the team attended the following:
ACTRA Awards (Toronto, ON)
All Access Conference (Winnipeg, MB)
Banff Content Industry Connect (Toronto, ON)
Banff World Media Festival (Banff, AB)
Canadian Screen Awards (Toronto, ON)
CFC Gala (Toronto, ON)
CFC Prime Time Writer Showcase (Toronto, ON)
CFC Short Film Showcase (Toronto, ON) China Cultural Dialogue (Toronto, ON)
CMPA PrimeTime Conference (Ottawa, ON)
ComedyPro Conference at Just for Laughs Festival (Montreal, QC)
Hot Docs (Toronto, ON)
ImagineNATIVE (Toronto, ON)
Just for Laughs Comedy Festival (Montreal, QC)
Kingston Canadian Film Festival (Kingston, ON)
Manitoba Film and Music Dinner (Winnipeg, MB) MIPTV Conference (Cannes, France)
NSI Features First Bootcamp (Toronto, ON)
OMDC Digital Dialogue Conference (Toronto, ON)
RealScreen Summit (Washington, DC)
SaskCreative Panel - Lunch with A Buyer (Regina, SK)
SheDot festival (Industry Gatekeepers panel) (Toronto, ON)
Toronto International Film Festival (Toronto, ON)
Toronto Screenwriting Conference (Toronto, ON)
Vancouver Web Fest (Vancouver, BC)
WGC Diverse Screenwriters Program East (Toronto, ON)
WIFTA - Women Making Waves Conference (Halifax, NS)
Women in Film and TV Vancouver - Film Festival (WIFT Pitch Session)
(Vancouver, BC)
-
7/24/2019 Bel lMedia Corporate Cultural DiversityReport 2015
43/47
Yorkton Film Festival (Yorkton, SK)
52. Bell Media's bravoFACT (Foundation to Assist Canadian Talent) was established in 1995
by the national specialty channel bravo. The foundation is the largest funder of short films in
Canada having supported over 1,500 short-form projects across the country. This year,bravoFACT supported the following projects:
Cree Code Talker: Explores the role of Canadian Cree code talker Charles "Checker"
Tomkins during WWII. Digging deep into the US archives it depicts the true story of
Charles' involvement with the US Air Force and the developments of the code talkers
communication system, using the Cree language as a vital secret weapon in combat.
Shahzad: An 11 year old Pakistani boy who moves to Toronto with his father, has to find
his home in a foreign land, only to discover that home itself has become foreign. Stateless: When a young Canadian finds himself threatened with deportation to a country
he has never visited, a team of human rights lawyers take on his precedent setting case.
Teriano:The unlikely journey of a young Maasai woman from a remote Kenyan village to
a digital hub in the heart of downtown Toronto. Teriano tells the story of so many
newcomers to Canada: a story of hope against all odds.
Tiger Man:Nanda Guha is many things. He's a prince, from a long royal lineage in
Darjeeling, india. He's a deeply religious family man. But above all, he loves his tigers and
lions.
53. Bell Media's MuchFACT (Foundation to Assist Canadian Talent) is a program funded
entirely by Much and M3. The MuchFACT mandate specifies that it awards funding to a diverse
array of musicians, with different cultural backgrounds all hailing from various parts of the country.
This year, MuchFACT supported projects by the following artists, amongst others:
Milk & Bone Their video is called "Coconut Water",and features a young man confined
to a wheelchair but with a wild imagination that allows him the freedom to fly. The OBGMs "Torpedo" Black Canadian
D!XON "Don't Wanna Wait" Black Canadian
WILDE "Flashlight"- Black Canadian
http://www.muchmusic.com/music/playlist/pid/659/cid/592203/wilde-flashlighthttp://www.muchmusic.com/music/playlist/pid/659/cid/592203/wilde-flashlighthttp://www.muchmusic.com/music/playlist/pid/659/cid/582023/the-obgms-torpedohttp://www.muchmusic.com/music/playlist/pid/659/cid/582023/the-obgms-torpedohttp://www.muchmusic.com/music/playlist/pid/659/cid/562994/milk-bone-coconut-waterhttp://www.muchmusic.com/music/playlist/pid/659/cid/562994/milk-bone-coconut-water -
7/24/2019 Bel lMedia Corporate Cultural DiversityReport 2015
44/47
54. Canal D supported Wapikoni Mobile, a mobile studio that visits Aboriginal communities
and provides the tools for video and musical creation.
8.3 Bell Media Corporate Initiatives
55. At the corporate level, Bell Media supports and promotes a wide range of events and
festivals that encourage representation among diverse groups. In 2015, Bell Media partnered
with a number of organizations with the same goal of celebrating diversity and was proud to share
these events and festivals with its viewers and listeners. These initiatives included:
imagineNATIVE Bell Media continued as Presenting Sponsor for the imagineNATIVE
Film and Media Arts Festival. The festival celebrates the latest works by Indigenous
peoples at the forefront of innovation in film, video, radio, and new media. Bell Media wasproud to continue its support of this event and participate as hosts of screenings and
award presentations. In addition to financial support, Bell Media also provided on-air and
online promotional support to the festival.
Culture Daysis the annual celebration weekend where thousands of artists, individuals,
organizations and communities host over 7,600 free, hands-on, interactive activities that
invite the public to participate. Bell Media lent support through the airing of both radio and
television PSAs as well as local coverage of various Culture Days events.
Toronto Reel Asian International Film Festival: The festival showcases contemporary
Asian cinema from the Asian diaspora. Works highlighted at the festival include films and
videos by East, South and Southeast Asian artist in Canada, and around the world. Bell
Media provides Canada's largest Asian film festival with financial support. Bell Media is
the Premier Sponsor of the Inside Out, Toronto's LGBT Film Festival
Bell is the official telecommunications partner for the Canadian Paralympic Team
CP24 and CTV Toronto are the Exclusive Broadcast Media Sponsors of Pride Torontoand
recently renewed their longstanding partnership for an additional three years (2015
through 2017).
56. Bell Media also supported some major public awareness campaigns this year focused on
bullying and mental health:
-
7/24/2019 Bel lMedia Corporate Cultural DiversityReport 2015
45/47
The Pledge to End Bullying, is a multi-faceted campaign that provides PSAs and a
website for people to find some hope in the bullying epidemic. People are asked to take
The Pledge as their commitment to end bullying whenever and wherever they see it. Bell
Media is a founding partner of the campaign. Significant effort was made to bring in
repre