The University of Southern California's Annenberg Inclusion Initiative and the Adobe Foundation have teamed up to release a new list that ranks television series based on their diversity and inclusion efforts. The Inclusion List for episodic programming focuses on both on-screen representation and diversity behind the scenes, shedding light on the executive producers who are leading the way in promoting inclusivity. The list includes the top 100 highest-scoring broadcast and cable series from the 2021-2022 television season, as well as the top 100 streaming platform series between 2021 and 2023.
Stacy L. Smith, the founder of the Annenberg Inclusion Initiative, believes that this list is a way to celebrate those who are making a genuine effort to make the television industry more welcoming and diverse. It not only recognizes the progress that has been made but also highlights that there is still much work to be done. Smith emphasizes that this list sends a powerful message to the rest of the world—there are no excuses when it comes to fostering inclusivity in the television industry.
Some of the top scorers for broadcast and cable series include 'Queen Sugar,' a show centered around a set of Black siblings in Louisiana, and 'The Baby,' which explores the life of a childfree woman who unexpectedly ends up with a mysterious baby. On the streaming platforms, top performers include shows like 'Raising Dion,' which revolves around a Black mother and her son, and 'Gentified,' a series that delves into the lives of Mexican American cousins.
The list also recognizes the executive producers who have excelled in creating diverse and inclusive content. Notable names included in the producer list are Greg Berlanti, Sarah Schecter, and Ava DuVernay, among others.
In order to compile the rankings, the Inclusion Initiative developed a scoring system. The series' regular cast members were evaluated based on representation in terms of gender, race and ethnicity, age, disability, and LGBTQ+ characters. Behind the scenes, positions such as director, writer, producer, casting director, and costume director were scored for gender, race, and ethnicity representation. The highest possible score was 15, with 'Queen Sugar' achieving a score of 12.8 and 'Raising Dion' attaining a score of 13.3.
While some of the shows on the list are no longer on air, Stacy L. Smith stresses that this effort is not solely about a show's reception by audiences. It is about recognizing and providing opportunities to individuals who are contributing to the television industry. Getting involved in the industry, adding to resumes, making connections, and having an impact on what is being created for audiences is vital for long-term career sustainability and growth.
Alan Luna, a casting director based in Los Angeles, has witnessed firsthand the impact that being a series regular on a show can have on an actor's career. Regardless of whether the show lasts a single season or longer, having a series regular credit boosts an actor's credibility and opens doors to new opportunities. Luna believes that this recognition is life-changing for actors, as it allows them to enter every casting room with a solid track record.
The influence of inclusive casting and representation also extends to the work of industry professionals like Luna. As a Mexican American casting director, he is dedicated to introducing talent from diverse backgrounds that might not otherwise have the opportunity to shine in certain settings. Luna's efforts have a positive ripple effect, ultimately leading to a more inclusive and representative industry.
Actress Jurnee Smollett acknowledges the importance of having a diverse range of women behind the cameras. She believes that the more women from various backgrounds occupy positions of power in the industry, the more significant and noticeable the changes will be in front of the camera.
The focus on inclusion and diversity in the entertainment industry has become even more crucial following the labor strikes that took place last year. According to Stacy L. Smith, this list serves as a reminder to the industry that they must continue to prioritize inclusivity and cannot simply go back to business as usual after such disruptions.
Television has a unique power to impact audiences due to its ubiquity in American homes. David Stamps, a professor of public relations and media psychology, highlights the accessibility and reach of television as a medium, making it an effective tool for promoting cross-cultural contact and understanding.
In conclusion, the Inclusion List for episodic programming is a significant step toward recognizing and celebrating television series that prioritize diversity and inclusion both on and off-screen. It highlights the ongoing efforts to create a more inclusive industry and serves as a reminder that there is no excuse for the lack of representation. By acknowledging the producers and series that are leading the way, the list encourages the industry to continue pushing for progress and working toward a more welcoming and diverse television landscape.
