Abstract

Entertainment offers a powerful medium in reducing bias and prejudice. Therefore, its critical role in shaping bias through on-screen representation needs to be explored through people who work directly with writers, directors, and actors. This qualitative study aimed to determine the impact of diversity and inclusion approaches by interviewing 14 advocates of creative talent in the entertainment industry. The study explored the types of Diversity & Inclusion (D&I) initiatives prevalent in entertainment, the correlation between bias and prejudice reduction, and the perceived impact of these initiatives in improving environments. The study found that six themes emerged: access to relationships, highlighting talent, perceptions of the underrepresented, motivations for engagement, hiring as a metric, and positivity of incremental change. Three conclusions were drawn based on each inquiry area: programs based in support and contact, mixed signals in program effectiveness, and a promising path when disregarding speed.

Library of Congress Subject Headings

Diversity in the workplace; Multiculturalism in mass media; Motion picture industry

Date of Award

2020

School Affiliation

Graziadio Business School

Department/Program

Business

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Masters

Faculty Advisor

Miriam Y. Lacey

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