Latinx perspectives and voices are underrepresented in the public discourse around racial equity and systemic racism, a study conducted by the Berkeley Media Studies Group finds.

While Latinx individuals represent nearly 20 percent of all Americans and more than 40 percent of all people of color in the United States, the study found that less than 6 percent of news about racism and racial equity referenced Latinx individuals. Conducted in collaboration with UnidosUS, the report, Elevating Latino Experiences and Voices in News about Racial Equity: Findings and Recommendations for More Complete Coverage, highlighted a lack of Latinx representation across all regions, even in California, where nearly a quarter of all U.S.-based Latinx live. In addition, the report raises concerns about how coverage is framed, with solutions-focused articles making up less than 40 percent of Latinx coverage, and recommends that media include more Latinx sources who can share their firsthand experiences. 

“When Latino experiences, contributions, and concerns are excluded from news coverage, policy makers and the public don’t have the facts needed to craft effective and inclusive solutions,” said UnidosUS senior director for racial equity initiative Viviana Lopez Green. “Too often, our community is ‘out of sight-out of mind.’ ”

(Photo credit: Getty Images/FG Trade Latin)