Hispanic Workers Are Underrepresented in the Media [REPORT]

While many media companies now recognize the importance of diversity on screen and in print, Hispanic workers were underrepresented in the media workforce from 2010-19.

Hispanic workers are underrepresented in the media industry compared to their representation in the rest of the U.S. workforce. Little change occurred from 2010 through 2019, according to GAO’s analysis of the Census Bureau’s American Community Survey data (see fig.). The extent of underrepresentation in the media varied by occupation and gender. Stakeholders GAO interviewed identified challenges Hispanics may face working in the industry, such as access to professional networks.

Estimated Percentage of Workers in the Media and in Non-media Industries Who Are Hispanic, 2010 through 2019

The media industry plays a key role in educating and entertaining the public, but some policymakers have raised questions about workforce diversity in the industry. EEOC, the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP), and FCC generally oversee media companies’ compliance with EEO requirements. GAO was asked to review the representation of Hispanics in the media industry and related federal oversight.

This report examines (1) the representation of Hispanics in the media industry over the last decade, (2) steps selected media companies publicly reported taking to increase workforce diversity, and (3) how key federal agencies have enforced federal EEO requirements in the industry.

To download report, CLICK HERE.