"This practical guide on gender sensitivity and inclusivity is designed specifically with the working journalist in mind and to prompt the practitioner to make conscious decisions about the use of words and visuals as a means of enhancing professionalism. In our everyday life, we encounter countless... examples of gender stereotypes which often do inadvertently get mainstreamed and perpetuated by the news media, through poor language and image use, contributing to continuing discrimination. Many stereotypical social constructs get ‘normalized’ when the media perpetuates and sometimes ends up amplifying the same. For example, men are often described as heroes and epitomes of strength, with specific characteristics attributed to them. Similarly, women are regularly portrayed as weak and in need of male protection. We are constantly ‘programmed’ to ‘accept’ soldiers and freedom fighters to be men. Women on the other hand are often viewed as victims – of war, drought or epidemic – and as disempowered individuals who are meant for ‘softer’ jobs and needing ‘protection." (Preface, page 46) more