What Role Do the Media Play in Social Justice?

We’ve all had the experience of being captivated by a sensational story of a harrowing crime. Television shows, movies, articles, and books about these statistically rare events grab our attention and grip us in fear. They feed the idea that catching only the few very bad people and locking them up for life is the bulk of what the justice system does.
Reality is far more complex, of course. From mass incarceration for nonviolent crimes to overrepresentation of black people in the justice system, there are thousands of stories that deserve to be told, not just because they are real people’s experiences but because they raise questions that we as a society need to face.
It is the media’ s role and responsibility to tell the stories we as citizens need to hear. When stories are compelling and accurate, they move us to think more deeply, connect with those we might have not felt connected to, and act to change our world.
That’s why each year, through our Media for a Just Society Awards, the National Council on Crime and Delinquency recognizes those individuals in the media whose work furthers public understanding of criminal justice, juvenile justice, child welfare, and adult protection issues. The winners of the 2013 MJS Awards competed against over 100 other nominees in the categories of film, book, magazine, newspaper, radio, TV/video, and web. This month, NCCD is featuring many MJS winners in a special blog series. Through these posts, we will learn about the impetus for their work, the challenges of its creation, and what these issues mean to them.

We’re also proud this year to give the Distinguished Achievement Award in Nonfiction to author Andrew Solomon for his book Far From the Tree. In this thoughtful and exactingly researched book, Solomon looks at the many differences between children, and explores why some challenges are seen as deficits to be overcome and some are seen as facets of identity to be embraced.
NCCD will honor this year's winners at the MJS Awards ceremony and reception on Wednesday, October 2, 2013, from 6 to 9 p.m. at the W Hotel in San Francisco. We warmly invite you to join us in recognizing these individuals by purchasing tickets or becoming a sponsor of the MJS Awards. For more information, visit nccdglobal.org.

NCCD improves outcomes for at-risk children, youth, adults, and families through research and policy innovation. Every day, our work touches millions of lives, transforming the cycle of abuse, neglect, violence, and crime into one of safety, well-being, and hope.