LEFT BIAS
These media sources are moderate to strongly biased toward liberal causes through story selection and/or political affiliation. They may utilize strong loaded words (wording that attempts to influence an audience by appealing to emotion or stereotypes), publish misleading reports, and omit information that may damage liberal causes. Some sources in this category may be untrustworthy. See all Left Bias sources.
- Overall, we rate The Discourse as Left-Biased due to its consistent focus on progressive policy positions. We also rate its reporting as High for factual accuracy based on editorial transparency and good sourcing practices.
Detailed Report
Bias Rating: LEFT (-6.0)
Factual Reporting: HIGH (1.8)
Country: Canada
MBFC’s Country Freedom Rating: MOSTLY FREE
Media Type: Website
Traffic/Popularity: Minimal Traffic
MBFC Credibility Rating: HIGH CREDIBILITY
History
The Discourse is a Canadian local journalism outlet with teams reporting in communities such as Cowichan Valley, Nanaimo, and the Comox Valley. It focuses on civic accountability, Indigenous issues, climate reporting, and community events. The Discourse is a member of the Press Forward network, a collective of independent Canadian media organizations that emphasize public-interest journalism. Its 10 guiding principles emphasize accountability, diversity, equity, and truth-telling in service of community engagement.
Read our profile on the Canadian government and media.
Funded by / Ownership
The Discourse is an independent, donor-funded media organization that relies on reader memberships rather than advertising or corporate backing. As a nonprofit model, it aligns closely with other Press Forward outlets focused on sustainability and public-interest reporting.
Analysis / Bias
The Discourse leans left in its issue framing, with a focus on equity, environmental justice, and social inclusion. For instance, “North Cowichan’s Independent Safety Review Under Scrutiny” critiques transparency around a municipal safety review, amplifying concerns from citizens about community well-being and governance.
The “2025 Pride Guide” celebrates LGBTQ+ events and voices across Vancouver Island, reinforcing values of visibility and inclusion. Meanwhile, “Poll: Climate Change a Top Concern for Canadian Farmers” emphasizes climate impacts and highlights policy urgency through agricultural perspectives.
The publication’s consistent prioritization of social equity, climate action, and Indigenous representation reflects a progressive editorial direction. Its reporting is generally well-sourced and avoids sensationalism, placing it in the Left-Leaning bias category with high factual reliability.
Failed Fact Checks
- None in the Last 5 years
Overall, we rate The Discourse as Left-Biased due to its consistent focus on progressive policy positions. We also rate its reporting as High for factual accuracy based on editorial transparency and good sourcing practices. (M. Huitsing 06/09/2025)
Source: https://thediscourse.ca/
Last Updated on June 9, 2025 by Media Bias Fact Check
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