Hi there,
I recently wrote the introduction to an article, but after editing and re-reading, I am uncertain as to whether I am using the correct tense in the last two sentences.
Here is the introduction:
'In the UK, media coverage of immigration is characterised by hostility and xenophobia. Column inches are awash with negative stereotypes and unfounded associations, with immigrants depicted in the most harmful of ways, from criminals to benefit scroungers.
But over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic, structural inequalities have heaped disproportionate suffering on the immigrant population, with healthcare difficult to access and economic vulnerabilities heightened. Added to this, immigrants’ immense contributions on the pandemic’s frontline have prompted a notable uptick in public support.
With both of these things in mind, it is important to examine the media’s response. Has a softening in tone occurred, or does divisive rhetoric still abound?'
Am I right to be using what I believe is present perfect and present here? Initially the last two sentences read:
'With both of these things in mind, it is important to examine how the media responded. Did a softening in tone occur, or does divisive rhetoric still abound?'
But I changed it at the last minute because I thought it is wrong to use past tense given that the media coverage I am referring to is still ongoing if that makes sense.
Many thanks/
