4 ways newsrooms can address a lack of diversity

[Commentary] Newsrooms have addressed diversity in fits and starts over recent decades, but those efforts have stagnated in the past 10 years. In fact, the portion of newsrooms made up of people of color has actually ticked downward one percentage point during this period, according to the American Society of News Editors, from nearly 14 percent to less than 13 percent. The lack of long-term change in this regard stems at least in part from media-wide apathy. But it’s a question of resources as well, especially in the face of the industry’s daunting financial prospects. How do you hire a staff that includes people of different races, genders, and experiences?
1. Acknowledge there is a problem.
2. Consciously work to overcome barriers to entry.
3. Tell stories minorities want to read.
4. Focus on retention.