Episode 2:
Are news deserts the new normal?
What happens when local news goes dark?
Canadian journalism isn’t merely news, it’s democratic infrastructure. Amid a world of big tech monopolies and misinformation, Canadian journalism is constantly fighting to ensure people are informed by trusted and verified sources. But this democratic infrastructure is actively breaking down. From advertising revenue loss to mass newsroom layoffs and closures, the Canadian media sphere is facing crises that are leaving behind countless news deserts.
In this episode of CanConversations, host Raj Shoan sits down with Randy Kitt, Director of Media at Unifor, to discuss the value of local news and the threats that stare it down every day. They discuss exactly how these threats impact local news, how legislation has both protected and eroded Canadian journalism, and the possibility of a sustainable news ecosystem for the future.
Our Guest
Randy Kitt is the Director of Media at Unifor, Canada’s largest private sector union. A graduate of Toronto Metropolitan University’s Radio and Television Arts program, Kitt worked at TSN, Discovery Channel Canada, CTV, and Bell Media for over 20 years as a production video editor, editing news, show openings, features, documentaries, commercials, and promotions.
Kitt worked his way up the local 79M leadership as a steward, secretary, and local president. He was elected as Unifor’s first Media Chairperson, serving on the union’s National Executive Board before being hired as a National Representative.
As Unifor’s Media Director, Kitt is responsible for the direction of media policy, bargaining and enforcing collective agreements and the protection of journalists and media workers. Unifor fights tirelessly, not only for its members’ rights and protections, but for a vibrant Canadian Media landscape that champions Canadian content and supports local news and a healthy democracy.