Representation in Media Matters

 Studies show that representation in media matters to Black parents. Diverse and inclusive media can help parents have conversations about race, shapes views about how one sees themselves and others and impacts our understanding of our racial identity. In the October 2021 Common Sense Report, The Inclusive Imperative: Why Media Representation Matters For Kids’ Ethnic-Racial Socialization, the majority of Black families want media that features characters that are Black and from different racial/ethnic groups.

On our recent episode of What is Black?, Representation in Media Matters, we discussed the importance of representative media content for Black Families. Our guests were Charlene Polite Corley, VP of Diverse Insights and Partnership at Nielsen and Natalie Engel, Director of Content for Children’s Programming at PBS. According to the February 2021 Neilsen report, The New Black Family Culture: Navigating Crises Through Content, there is a demand for diverse and representative media content. Some of the most widely viewed family content in 2020 included the movies Jingle Jangle and Soul. During the discussion, the topics of the importance of media platforms to be intentional in creating diverse characters and stories that go beyond stereotypes and explore the complexities of the characters and situations. There has been progress in the development of diverse and inclusive programming but there is room for growth. To help parents find representative media for kids was mentioned, our friends at PBS KIDS shared the following information and some additional resources for families.

PBS KIDS

Families can watch PBS KIDS anytime on the free PBS KIDS 24/7 channel and the PBS KIDS Video app, available on mobile and connected-TV devices, no subscription required. PBS KIDS’ large collection of mobile apps and pbskids.org provide accessible content, including digital games and streaming video to spark kids’ curiosity. PBS KIDS and local stations across the country support the entire ecosystem in which children learn and grow – including their teachers, parents and caregivers, and community – providing resources to support children’s learning, anytime and anywhere. 

PBS KIDS Talk About Race & Racism: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_fbQBKwdWPg

PBS KIDS Games App: https://pbskids.org/apps/pbs-kids-games.html

The PBS KIDS Video app has a downloadable content feature – allowing those who may not have broadband at home to download content at a public space or where Wi-Fi is available to utilize at their discretion.

Common Sense Media

Common Sense Media has included a new rating to inform families know about diverse representative of reviewed media.

Common Sense Media: https://www.commonsensemedia.org/

Image Courtesy of Common Sense Media. Example of Common Sense Media Ratings including new Diverse Representations Rating.