Television and Diversity

Television networks introduced 26 new prime-time programs. None had a member of a minority group in a leading role. Many civil rights and media organizations expressed outrage. “ In this type of medium, there are five different types of stereotypes that emerge. Black and brown people are projected as less important than we are, less hardworking than we are, less universal than we are, less patriotic and more violent….We challenge networks because there is simply a need for them to display our contributions in the building of America.” Black and brown people are projected as less important

The Media Action Network for Asian Americans (MANAA) “What is…important…is the beginning of a long-term grassroots campaign to educate the community on how to be smarter and more responsible viewers. If we do not see ourselves on television and in positive ways, we will not watch those shows. We will therefore not see those commercials and not buy those products. It’s time both Hollywood and the advertising community wake up to the concept that if we are not included in their programming, we will not include them in our lives.”

Latino Organizations… Called for weeklong boycott of television in September 1999 Felix Sanchez- President of the National Hispanic Foundation for the Arts Spoke of the importance of television programs that featured minority actors and actresses in positive roles.  Sitcom  Professional AA couple  NBC 1984 – 1992  Highest rated show on TV 1985 – 1989  Helped to fight negative stereotypes of AA perpetuated by TV in the past Sanchez, “The Cosby Show did more for Civil Rights than any civil rights legislation

Sanford and Son The Cosby Show