Breaking Down Barriers: The Ongoing Battle for Diversity in Sports Journalism

Summar Shine, Student Journalist, https://twitter.com/summarshine 3/1/24

Navigating the ever-changing landscape of Upstate New York college sports, the problem of diversity in sports reporting is very real. As young reporters, analyzing the riveting head-to-heads of teams like the Ithaca Bombers, Cornell Big Red, and Syracuse Orange, we are more than watchers; we are storytellers. But what type of stories are we telling, and whose voice are we amplifying?

Recent findings from the Associated Press Sports Editors (APSE) shed light on the issue of diversity—or lack thereof—in sports journalism. The data shows a striking image: the vast majority of sports editors, assistant sports editors, columnists, reporters, and copy editors/designers are white, with women and persons of color significantly underrepresented in key leadership and editing positions.

According to the data, "79.2% of sports editors and 83.3% of assistant sports editors were white males. Additionally, 77.1% of columnists, 77.1% of reporters, and 77.0% of copy editors/designers were white" The data presented proves the widespread lack of diversity in sports media, particularly in the leadership and editing positions of those off-camera as well. The large ratio of white males in jobs such as sports editor and assistant sports editor demonstrates this demographic's dominance in the profession.

In addition, the racial diversity of other roles, such as columnists, reporters, and copy editors, and designers, remains the same. The fact that roughly three-quarters of those in these jobs are white indicates a pattern of exclusion and limited chances for those from underrepresented racial groups.

 These statistics are more than just numbers on a document; they indicate real hurdles and structural challenges for aspiring journalists from all backgrounds. In a field where representation is important, where the narratives we tell shape perceptions and impact discourse, the lack of different voices is more than just a disservice; it undermines the credibility and inclusivity of sports journalism.

In the world of college sports reporting, amidst these challenges there is Lisa Wilson. Wilson's name resonates as a pioneer, breaking barriers and advocating for diversity. Wilson, the NFL editor for The Athletic and the upcoming president of the Associated Press Sports Editors (APSE), has reached the pinnacle of her career through tremendous achievements and a constant commitment to diversity.

“It’s awesome and wonderful to be the first, but at the same time you think: I know I can’t be the only black woman capable of leading a sports section.” Lisa Wilson

Wilson's rise to success was exceptional. Her career trajectory, from her early days contributing to The Buffalo News to becoming the paper's first black woman sports editor in 2011, demonstrates her perseverance and determination in an industry where diversity has frequently been absent.

As we study these facts, it becomes clear that the lack of diverse perspectives in sports writing is more than just a statistical oddity; it is a fundamental issue affecting the profession's legitimacy. Looking ahead, both seasoned pros and emerging talent must work together to break down these roadblocks and cultivate a more representative and inclusive sports media environment.

Sources:

Richard Lapchick, Contributing Writer. “Sports Media Remains Overwhelmingly White and Male, Study Finds.” ESPN, ESPN Internet Ventures, www.espn.com/espn/story/_/id/32254145/sports-media-remains-overwhelmingly-white-male-study-finds. Accessed 29 Feb. 2024.

Rojas, Jorge. “Trailblazer Lisa Wilson Takes the Helm during a Challenging Period for APSE.” APSE: Associated Press Sports Editors, 29 June 2020, https://apsportseditors.com/trailblazer-lisa-wilson-takes-helm-during-a-challenging-time-for-apse/.