Alternate Focus: Balance in Media Coverage in Middle East

an article by Joanne Tawfilis

I recently met with a representative from a very interesting organization called Alternate Focus (www.alternatefocus.org). Their mission is to offer the American Public Media video documentaries and stories that provide a balance to existing coverage of Middle East and related issues. The three founding directors, a Jew, a Christian and a Muslim, are working together for peace and justice and are based in San Diego, California USA.

Alternative Focus has a number of volunteers who help with all aspects of video production, broadcasting, and DVD distribution to libraries and schools. This is an encouraging initiative because reaching the general public and youth with as many viewpoints as possible is critical to current and future PEACE efforts. It was exciting to feel the enthusiasm of the Atlernate Focus spokesperson who stated, "Our organization is an 'enabler.' We provide support to people who need acess to media...a real forum to tell their stories on film!"

Several independent video producers are also affiliated with Alternate Focus and offer documentaries available to them for broadcast. The website states that they continue to seek affiliation with producers, distributors, and interested organizations. I also read where they offer free training on all aspects of video production. This would be an excellent resource for many of the activists working in the region to promote some of the positive efforts that are underway as well.

This is yet another indication that there is hope for PEACE and that many non-governmental organizations can mobilize and make a positive impact, breaking ground, introducing new initiatives, informing the public with balanced news, and are dedicated to creating a culture of peace.

DISCUSSION

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How can different faiths work together for understanding and harmony?,

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This report was posted on September 13, 2005.

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