Importance of Representation in Local Media

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April 2, 2021 – Despite decades of trying, newsrooms in the United States are still suffering from a lack of diversity. Here in New Mexico, KOAT made history by hiring the state’s first African American general manager and president, Lori Waldon. Host Gene Grant talks with Waldon about her experiences in a handful of different newsrooms and why it is so important that the people reporting the news reflect the communities they serve. They also discuss why the diversity of stories that are told are equally as important, and what can be done to rectify this situation.  

Host: Gene Grant   

Guest: Lori Waldon, general manager and president, KOAT-TV 

For More Information: 

Lori Waldon joins KOAT as President and General Manager – KOAT 
Black Media Spotlight: Lori Waldron – The Paper 
Diversity Gains Haven’t Shown up in Local News – NiemanLab