A KALEIDOSCOPE OF PERSPECTIVE: EXPLORING DIVERSITY AND MEDIA REPRESENTATION WITH ANDREW
RAMSAMMY
MANSFIELD, OHIO. The modern digital landscape inundates us with a constant stream of media, from streaming
services and TV to TikTok and news outlets, all shaping how we perceive current events and issues. Challenging
media bias is essential to understanding the core of a community’s story and combating stereotypes and
misinformation.
On Tuesday, October 29, Kaleidoscope: Community Conversations will tackle these topics with an in-depth look at
ethnic-owned news media in the United States. Emmy award-winner Andrew Ramsammy will share his unique
insights on amplifying minority voices and promoting equal representation in local communities.
The event will take place at the Mansfield Senior High School auditorium at 5:30 p.m., operating under a “pay
what you can” model, with a suggested donation of $25. However, attendees are encouraged to contribute
whatever amount is feasible.
What is Kaleidoscope? Who Should Attend?
Kaleidoscope is an interactive speaker series that invites acclaimed authors and thought leaders to discuss the
complex issues facing small communities, including urban renewal, conflict resolution, and media representation.
The series fosters dialogue on how to address these challenges head-on.
Anyone invested in nurturing growth, inclusivity, and connection within Richland County should attend. The event
encourages community members to ask questions and share their perspectives, creating an open forum for
conversation and learning.
Andrew Ramsammy’s Experience and Perspective
A passionate advocate for social progress, Ramsammy will highlight the crucial role local media plays in giving a
voice to underrepresented communities. By telling stories often overlooked by mainstream outlets, Ramsammy
believes local media can go beyond mere accuracy to help audiences reach a deeper understanding of the truth.
“I want to emphasize the power of local journalism and community-driven media to provide authentic narratives
that reflect the realities of all residents,” Ramsammy shared. “By promoting media platforms that prioritize
inclusivity — through reporting, hiring practices, or community engagement — we can build a media landscape
that is both representative and equitable.”
Currently serving as the interim president of Vermont College of Fine Arts, Ramsammy focuses on expanding
access to the arts and using storytelling as a tool for positive change. A two-time Emmy Award winner, he will also
share personal stories of media misrepresentation and strategies to counteract it.
Is Curiosity the New Objectivity?
The event’s goal is for audiences to leave with a sharpened ability to consume media critically, seek diverse
perspectives, recognize their own biases, and stay open to ideas that may challenge their beliefs.
Jay Allred, CEO of Richland Source, emphasized the importance of curiosity in navigating today’s media landscape.
“This Kaleidoscope is all about thinking through the other side of the story,” Allred explained. “We’ll examine the
past, present, and future of ethnic media, but the same lens can be used to critically assess any narrative or news
story.”
Allred encourages participants to be proactive in their media consumption, remaining curious while also
challenging inaccuracies.
Sponsors and Additional Information
This event is made possible through the generous support of the Richland County Foundation, Mansfield/Richland
County Public Library, Renaissance Performing Arts Association, and Richland Source.
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit rentickets.org.