Changing the Narrative

Addressing implicit bias in reporting and increasing positive, accurate representations of BIPOC communities in mainstream media are integral to racial and health equity. Historically, news outlets have routinely perpetuated deficit-based narratives, particularly about BIPOC communities. Dominant narratives impact and reinforce mindsets, policies and systems that can perpetrate structural racism and result in continued inequities for marginalized communities.

Our communications and media outreach aims to change the dominant narrative on health, give voice to those most impacted by inequity, create greater understanding of why racial and health inequities exist, and challenge bias. This includes highlighting and centering the work we fund — and working to address structural and systemic racism within institutions that shape mainstream narratives on health.

Below you’ll find a few projects we support in an effort to change the narrative around health.

ThreeSixty Journalism

Since 2017, the Center for Prevention has supported ThreeSixty Journalism’s annual TV Broadcast Camp and News Reporter Academy. Participating students explored how racism, homophobia and social isolation contribute to mental health inequities in Minnesota and reported on community-led efforts to address mental health in our state. In partnership with ThreeSixty, Blue Cross is working to empower the next generation of journalists, change the dominant narrative on health, create a heathier future for coming generations and give a voice to those most impacted by racial and health inequities. READ MORE

Minneapolis Institute of Art

Blue Cross partners with the Minneapolis Institute of Art (Mia) to create a public exhibition of racial and health-equity themed artworks. High school students create original artwork focused on how racism impacts health under the mentorship of local BIPOC artists. The student paintings, drawings, and sculptures are an impactful way to mobilize change and transform health in our state.

MinnPost

Blue Cross funds and supports the racial and health equity reporting fellowship with MinnPost. In 2023, the nonprofit news source published over 60 stories focused on the inequitable health outcomes faced by BIPOC communities in Minnesota. These stories increased coverage of racial and health equity in Minnesota, earning 23.9 million impressions.

The Blue Cross fellowship journalist Ava Kian was recognized locally and nationally for her outstanding coverage. She was awarded a Salute to Excellence Award from the National Association of Black Journalists and was named Young Journalist of the Year by the Minnesota Society of Professional Journalists. Ava is transitioning into a permanent reporting position with MinnPost — advancing our goal of diversifying newsrooms and opening an opportunity for a new fellow. Our collaboration with MinnPost brings a deeper understanding of racial and health equity to the mainstream media landscape.