Journal of Mass Communication & Journalism

A Comparative Analysis of the U.S. Mainstream Press and Black Press Coverage of Jean-Bertrand Aristide from 1991-2011

Abstract

Amar N. Spencer

This study examined how the U.S. mainstream press and the Black Press portrayed former Haitian President
Jean-Bertrand Aristide from 1991-2011. Using narrative analysis, this study found that the mainstream press primarily depicted him as a savior of poor Haitians, and as a corrupt politician. The Black Press portrayed him in the same manner, but also depicted him as a victim of U.S. foreign policy. The findings led to the conclusion that the coverage by the Black Press is often similar to that of the mainstream. However, the Black Press is, at times, more inclined than the mainstream to challenge the U.S. status quo.