Communication Department - Buffalo State College - American Indian Initiative

AIPMI Mission

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Mission & Purpose

The American Indian Policy and Media Initiative is an activity sponsored by the Communication Department at Buffalo State College. The department's intention for the Initiative is to provide an independent, academic and dignified venue to address the intersection of (1) the concerns, journalistic practices of mainstream media and their representation of American Indians, and (2) a range of public policy issues affecting American Indians, such as taxation, sovereignty, local/ state/ federal jurisdiction, gaming, repatriation, archaeology, cultural policy and related matters.

Specifically, the Initiative has a four-fold mission:
- Public forums feature lectures, conferences and written presentations on topics focusing on the intersection of mainstream media and public policy issues related to American Indians.
- Media analysis projects focus on research and analysis on topics similar to those associated with the public forums.
- Media planning seminars assist tribal leadership and other Indian entities in developing comprehensive strategic communication programs.
- An educational component involves students and faculty in research, planning and training activities.

The initiative also stands as a practical implementation of the commitment of both the Communication Department and Buffalo State to diversity, community involvement and professional service.