Unlocking Opportunities for Video Programmers of Color

[Commentary] The Oscars' failure to recognize Black and Latino talent proves, once again, a troubling fact we know all too well: People of color face persistent challenges in convincing industry gatekeepers to produce, distribute and recognize their work. This is why finding new ways to make diverse content available to a greater number of people is essential to ensuring that communities of color are heard and able to tell their own stories, in their own voices, without first seeking permission of any middle man. At its Feb. 18 meeting, the Federal Communications Commission launched a proceeding to consider new rules that would allow third-party set-top boxes to securely access and display our cable programming -- unlocking our cable boxes from the clutches of our cable providers. This could help create a more vibrant media system that would better serve communities of color -- and give diverse content creators a better shot at connecting with their audiences.

[Joe Torres is senior external affairs director at Free Press. Michael Scurato is vice president of policy at the National Hispanic Media Coalition]