Commercial broadcasting networks such as chanel 4, Sky, ITV and The BBC have gotten involved in a new initiative surrounding the issue of diversity or the lack of it in the television sector both on and off the screen. The diversity category includes disability, LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender) and BAME (Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic groups). The first BAFTA Diversify conference took place in 2013 with a follow up conference in 2015, In the two years between these sessions, there have been significant advances in including these diversity groups into the productions, however many people including Lenny Henry, feel that despite the progression, there is still a lot more work to be done.
Diversity within television is a huge deal, it was reported that in 2013 the shockingly low statistics of BAME representation in television had fallen to 5.4%. The harsh reality is that the absence of relevant contributions has resulted in alienation and the formation of negative conceptions concerning these groups. I am therefore an advocate of new initiatives and schemes who aim to combat this problem. The BAFTA conference was a hub for likeminded individuals who have a common notion and urge to better represent multicultural identities. The Diversify conference part 2 was successful in delivering resolutions however for me the problem is that everyone involved is on the same page. Where are the people who do not see that there is a disproportionate opportunities or severe misrepresentations in television and how can we as a creative community get them to listen?
The implementations and schemes that are being put into place now are really going to set the tone for the future. Living in London, a very multicultural city, it is more likely for an ethnic minority to get certain opportunities. The initiatives mentioned during the podcast are essential in ensuring these same opportunities are presented and are attainable in less diverse areas within the UK. Action planning is a great way to begin but without execution and maintenance these efforts will go to waste.
Britain is the mother of television broadcast and we pride ourselves on this. Society is changing and incorporating all types of diversity is fundamental if we want to continue to reach audiences and exceed their entertainment needs. As a member of an Ethnic minority, Having this conversation within the industry and having the commercial broadcasting networks recognise that changes need to be made is very positive. This makes me hopeful not only for my generation but the future generations to come.
Diversify conference (part 2)
Diversity within television is a huge deal, it was reported that in 2013 the shockingly low statistics of BAME representation in television had fallen to 5.4%. The harsh reality is that the absence of relevant contributions has resulted in alienation and the formation of negative conceptions concerning these groups. I am therefore an advocate of new initiatives and schemes who aim to combat this problem. The BAFTA conference was a hub for likeminded individuals who have a common notion and urge to better represent multicultural identities. The Diversify conference part 2 was successful in delivering resolutions however for me the problem is that everyone involved is on the same page. Where are the people who do not see that there is a disproportionate opportunities or severe misrepresentations in television and how can we as a creative community get them to listen?
Britain is the mother of television broadcast and we pride ourselves on this. Society is changing and incorporating all types of diversity is fundamental if we want to continue to reach audiences and exceed their entertainment needs. As a member of an Ethnic minority, Having this conversation within the industry and having the commercial broadcasting networks recognise that changes need to be made is very positive. This makes me hopeful not only for my generation but the future generations to come.
Diversify conference (part 2)
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