Analysis:

This is typical coverage for cultural or ethnic celebrations. It is sort of a form of voyeurism. Viewers look at what other people do, but they never hear from them. Channel 13 tell viewers there was a celebration, with video footage of a Mexican man with a sombrero singing and people eating, but no one from the Mexican American community is heard talking about the significance of the celebration. Then one of the news reader tells viewers how much they like Mariachi music, like people’s culture is something to be consumed.

Another thing to consider is that statistically minority voices are rarely heard in local news coverage and tend to be race specific, meaning they are heard by TV viewers if the story is about racism, diversity or a cultural event. However, when it comes to economic, education, public health, the environment or public policy, minority voices are almost non-existent.

Story:

WZZM 13 News reader #1 - Well, the Grand Rapids Community College Mariachi band helped celebrate Cinco de Mayo today at El Sombrero on Bridge Street.

WZZM 13 News reader #2 - Cinco de Mayo, or the 5th of May, is a traditional Hispanic holiday, but it does not honor Mexican independence.

WZZM 13 News reader #1 - It actually commemorates the victory of the Mexican army over the French in a minor battle in 1862. The real Mexican independence day is September 16.

WZZM 13 News reader #2 - I just love Mariachi music.

Total Time: 33 seconds