Navigating a Predominantly White Industry: Identity in Canadian Media

This thesis investigates the state of representation for Black and racialized talent (public personalities, hosts, anchors, and contributors) in both French and English Canadian media, specifically in broadcasting and digital media. It is also focused on understanding the experience of Black and racialized people who work in the Canadian media industry and how identity affects the opportunities of these individuals. Therefore, this thesis is guided by two research questions: What is the professional experience of Black and racialized people who work in Canadian media? Moreover, how do they negotiate their racialized identity in the Canadian media industry? Through a literature analysis, I explore how key scholars have critically examined whiteness, colorism and multiculturalism through a critical race theory lens. Through the use of surveys and interviews as methodological frameworks, this research provides insights based on the experiences of Black and racialized people. After analyzing through a critical discourse lens, four main themes are revealed: notions of otherness, barriers of entry, colorism and the experience in the workplace.