Women and minorities on network television news: An examination of correspondents and newsmakers

Abstract

Abstract Over 20 years have passed since the Kerner Commission's Report revealed the shortcomings of mass media portrayals of minorities and called for increased minority hiring. This study examined the race and sex of correspondents on network newscasts, the topics of the stories they cover, and the role of newsmakers presented in the news. The results revealed little change in the presentation of women and minorities on network news, although demographics project a steady increase of minorities in the general population by the 21st century.