This study examines the role played by the Bengali diaspora in Canada and the Canadian media during the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971. Drawing on secondary literature and using qualitative discourse analysis, the research investigates how media narratives and diaspora-led activism shaped international awareness and support for Bangladesh’s independence. Its findings reveal that students, academics and community organisations were the most proactive diaspora actors, organising awareness campaigns, fundraising efforts and political lobbying. Their engagement was fuelled by strong Bengali nationalism and cultural identity, which mobilised public opinion and influenced Canadian responses to the conflict. The study highlights how diaspora communities can serve as transnational agents, leveraging media and community networks to affect political and humanitarian outcomes abroad. By situating these activities within frameworks of transnational solidarity and diaspora mobilisation, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of the intersection between media, identity and diaspora engagement in national liberation movements.
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Sphulingo. 1971. Sphulingo (Issue 1) August [In Bengali].
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This study examines the role played by the Bengali diaspora in Canada and the Canadian media during the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971. Drawing on secondary literature and using qualitative discourse analysis, the research investigates how media narratives and diaspora-led activism shaped international awareness and support for Bangladesh’s independence. Its findings reveal that students, academics and community organisations were the most proactive diaspora actors, organising awareness campaigns, fundraising efforts and political lobbying. Their engagement was fuelled by strong Bengali nationalism and cultural identity, which mobilised public opinion and influenced Canadian responses to the conflict. The study highlights how diaspora communities can serve as transnational agents, leveraging media and community networks to affect political and humanitarian outcomes abroad. By situating these activities within frameworks of transnational solidarity and diaspora mobilisation, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of the intersection between media, identity and diaspora engagement in national liberation movements.
| All Time | Past 365 days | Past 30 Days | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Abstract Views | 43 | 43 | 43 |
| Full Text Views | 15 | 15 | 15 |
| PDF Views & Downloads | 9 | 9 | 9 |