Speakers Corner returns online, aims to help stimulate conversation around racism, discrimination
Posted June 3, 2020 9:38 am.
Last Updated June 3, 2020 10:40 am.
TORONTO (NEWS 1130) — Speakers Corner is back, with a different platform but at a time when voices need to be heard more than ever.
Speakers Corner first launched on Citytv in 1990 and quickly became a popular destination for Canadians who had something to say, informing audiences for decades.
The little booth on the streets of downtown Toronto, then later in Vancouver, has now been replaced by technology and social media, giving Canadians another place to be seen and heard amid the current social discord surrounding systemic racism and injustice.
“With racial inequality, hatred, and discrimination still so prevalent, we as a society must do better. We have a unique responsibility to engage Canadians in conversation through our media assets and help be a catalyst for positive change by amplifying voices that have not always been heard with equal measure,” said Jordan Banks, president Rogers Sports & Media.
“Canada has systemic inequalities, and we must firmly embrace inclusion and equality as it will lead to a stronger and more united society for future generations.”
https://twitter.com/RSMCanada/status/1268160103540285443
Starting Wednesday, Canadians are encouraged to share their thoughts and opinions via video on either the Speakers Corner website or on social media with the hashtag #SpeakUp.
Videos will be featured on the Speakers Corner webpage, with a selection of submissions shared across Rogers Sports & Media’s suite of assets including Citytv, CityNews, OMNI Television, Sportsnet, Rogers TV, and various Rogers Radio stations across the country.
A Citytv favourite is being revived for the digital age, starting today, to spark a conversation around racism and discrimination. The little "Speaker's Corner" booth is gone, replaced by a new website and the hashtag #SpeakUp. "Speaker's Corner" first launched back in 1990. pic.twitter.com/2brEP7fLJ7
— John Ackermann ???? (@jackermann) June 3, 2020
Rogers Sports & Media will continue the conversation with a virtual CityNews & OMNI Television Town Hall next week, whereby prominent Canadians will share their views and opinions on the need for change in the fight against racism and inequality.
Further details will be shared over the coming days.
Rogers Sports & Media is the parent company of NEWS 1130.
