“Dialogues that deactivate”: Radio as a tool to counter Hate Speech
Radio remains one of the most human and accessible forms of media, capable of creating closeness, intimacy, and active listening. Its community driven nature and adaptability to diverse social contexts make it a powerful tool for amplifying diverse voices, especially those that have historically been silenced or stigmatized.
In this respect, Migration+ is excited to highlight the initiative Dialogues that deactivate, part of the project “Deactivate Racism and Xenophobia”, led by CONVIVE Fundación Cepaim. This program reminds us that spoken word, when crafted collectively, can become a force for social transformation, resistance, and the creation of inclusive narratives around migration, racism, and coexistence.
Dialogues that deactivate launched on March 8, 2023, in Madrid. Its goal is to create a space for collective reflection and to amplify the voices of key community leaders who work to challenge hate speech, as well as the racist and sexist prejudices present in society.
This radio program tackles socially relevant issues, featuring professionals and activists deeply engaged in the anti-racist movement, along with individuals who share their personal experiences and stories—adding depth and authenticity to these transformative conversations.
The importance of programs like Dialogues that deactivate lies in their ability to foster intercultural dialogue and raise public awareness around diversity and inclusion. By offering a platform to confront and dismantle stereotypes and biases, these initiatives play a key role in building a fairer and more equitable society. Moreover, by actively involving the community in these discussions, the program encourages participation in the fight against racism and xenophobia, helping to strengthen the social fabric and promote intercultural coexistence.
Since its debut, Dialogues that deactivate has proven that words can be a powerful tool to disarm prejudice, challenge stereotypes, and create safe spaces for listening and connection. Topics covered in recent episodes include: Pride Month Special, World Refugee Day, What Is Hate?, Purple and Anti-Racist Points, The Chinese Community in Spain: Prejudice and Racism, and Masculinities from an Anti-Racist Perspective, among others.
One of the program’s greatest strengths is its deep commitment to community. It’s not just a space to talk about migration—but rather from migration and diversity—featuring those who live it, promote it, and defend it every day. In doing so, the program values the lived experiences of people often excluded from mainstream media and emphasizes the importance of building citizenship through horizontal dialogue.
At Diálogos Para Construir, we wholeheartedly applaud and feel deeply aligned with projects like Dialogues that deactivate. As an organization rooted in DIALOGUE, we believe that in times like these, speaking, listening, and understanding are among the most revolutionary acts we can carry out together. We are convinced that racism can be dismantled by creating spaces where every voice is heard and every story has the chance to be told.
If you haven’t yet had the chance to tune in, we invite you to experience this powerful and transformative audio journey. Episodes of Dialogues that deactivate are available on iVoox and Spotify, where each installment invites us to reflect with empathy, closeness, and respect.
