Charlene White Interview
Award Winning ITV News Presenter Charlene White spoke to us about the push for greater diversity and equality in British Television over the last 12 months.
The Black Lives Matter movement appears to have changed the conversation about race in the media very quickly. I think it’s encouraged channels to be more accountable and truthful and I’m hoping it leads to real change.
I’ve been working in the broadcast industry for twenty years and despite commitments to diversity it was as if we were consistently moving in the other direction - more middle class, and more white.
I’m pleased that we’re now witnessing change because I’ve seen first-hand superbly talented on and off-screen talent leaving the industry because of discrimination and a lack of opportunities. It’s hugely saddening.
As broadcasters we know the power and reach of our programming. We can change the hearts and minds of our viewers, helping even to shape the way our society views the world. Educating, informing, entertaining and smashing stereotypes. I ponder sometimes on if we’ve forgotten our responsibilities by not holding ourselves accountable.
We are starting to see more successes though in front of the camera and behind. Alison Hammond becoming the first black regular anchor of This Morning at the beginning of 2021 fantastic to see and even the decision to have a wider and more diverse pool of talent including make-up artists really matters.
I know that many of my colleagues feel encouraged since the BLM movement crossed the Atlantic. But we have to be so mindful not to allow this momentum to fall by the wayside. We need to ensure that we’re constantly striving to lead the industry by having the most talented and representative workforce.
If you want to hear more about Diversity & Inclusion at ITV, take a look at our Diversity Acceleration Plan results.