Congresswoman Val Demings (D- FL) has introduced a bipartisan resolution in Congress to promote diversity in media. She is joined in the proposal by GOP members Rep. Jenniffer González-Colón (R-PR) and Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL), along with fellow Democrat Jacky Rosen (D-NV),
Demings introduced the legislation just in time for the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s Annual Legislative Conference on Sept. 11, where the subject of diversity– and the lack thereof– is always under consideration. With the approaching 2020 election, the importance of communicating with this segment of the population takes on increasing political importance.
“I am glad to join with Representative González-Colón, Senator Rosen, and Senator Rubio to introduce this legislation,” Demings said. “It is invaluable for our children and our democracy to have a cross-section of perspectives that reflect various cultures and voices, in news and entertainment. America is at its best when every American can read, listen, and watch vibrant media that reflects the diversity of our great country.”
Congresswoman González-Colón said in a written statement that “[t]he media should be a reflection of the society they serve.”
Senator Rubio likewise issued a statement pointing specifically to the need to support minority media outlets:
“Throughout my career, I have had the pleasure of working with local media outlets across the state of Florida,” Rubio said. “These outlets are ingrained in our communities, offering unique and important insight. We must continue to support small, diverse media outlets that are instrumental in preserving local culture, and serve as an invaluable resource for our communities.”
Senator Rosen agreed, saying “[w]e must make an effort to ensure that our newsrooms and media companies are reflective of America, both in terms of ideas and of media figures. This is critical now, more than ever.”
