Essential, hard conversations about persistent structural racism in America are now happening every day, in communities throughout Boston, and across the nation. This reckoning is also happening within WGBH. As the country’s largest producer of public media programs, we have a responsibility as a content creator and presenter to unequivocally stand against racism and inequity in both the work we do, and how we do it.
To proclaim our anti-racist stance rings hollow unless we demonstrate it through action. As a white man leading an influential public media organization, I am acutely aware that I cannot fully fathom the experience of my Black colleagues. I have not walked in their shoes. Yet I am listening, learning, and acting with my colleagues to address inequities that have held our organization back. I know I am responsible for our progress. And I know this truth: Black lives matter. Period.
To honor that statement means working toward systemic change, something that takes dedication and persistence. We are committed to both. First and foremost, we are committed to addressing issues of race and diversity within our workplace for our Black and other employees of color. Changes are being made in our staffing, management and hiring policies that will be consequential and lasting. And we will ensure that our leadership team is held to account for advancing true diversity within WGBH. That means increasing the diversity of voices within our organization.
For the past six decades, WGBH has consciously worked to live our mission, to educate and inspire, to foster citizenship, and to embrace diverse perspectives in our programs. But we have not done enough. To bring that mission to life means ensuring we have more colleagues of color among those creating our programs. Increasing their voices and visibility in our work will enable public media to more equitably serve our communities and build the trust that audiences place in us. We are committed to implementing this change.
I know there is more we must do to contribute meaningfully to advancing racial justice and creating more inclusive communities. We will continue to use our local programs, our educational resources and our national reach to deepen understanding, foster dialogue, and create shared experiences. Together with our colleagues, our partners and our community we will work toward a day when every person is treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.
