MPA held a panel discussion called Race, Identity and Privilege in Media at the Harmonie Club in New York City on June 19^th, 2007.

The interactive discussion served as a platform for magazine professionals and subject experts to participate in an open dialogue about what role race and privilege play in media and media representation.  Moderated by Cindy M. del Rosario, Managing Editor, Blue Egg, the distinguished panel included Angela Burt-Murray, Editor-in-Chief, Essence magazine; Roy S. Johnson, Editor-in-Chief, Mens Fitness magazine; Carolina A. Miranda, distinguished Writer, Reporter, Author and TV Commentator; and Ramon Marmolejos, Consultant, FutureWork Institute.  

The discussion began with a question posed to the panelists about coverage of racism in light of the Don Imus incident and whether or not political correctness should trump free speech. 

I think that free speech will always come with a price and the media knows that more than anybody, said Miranda, who believes that the larger issue is that the media allows for derogatory language to pass as entertainment.

There are certain boundaries that cannot be crossed and an incident like this is obviously a large infraction, said Marmolejos.  He added, But I think whats more important are some of the more insidious infractions, or micro-inequities, that happen on a day to day basis.

The conversation shifted from coverage of racism in the media to the lack of ethic diversity newsrooms and executive posts.

I think that you not only do a disservice to journalists coming into the business, but you also do a disservice to your readers, said Burt-Murray of the consequences of not implementing ethic diversity within media organizations.  I dont think that editors are taking seriously the idea that the landscape of the country is shifting dramatically and most likely, your newsroom does not reflect your readership.

Other topics discussed included privilege in the media, ethic recruitment and retention, the effects the digital age had on print media, and how an effective diversity initiative can affect a corporations bottom line. Panelists offered final words of advice to the audience about fighting for diversity in the magazine industry.

I want you to be encouraged, said Johnson. I want you leave here with a positive attitude. There are great opportunities out there and its not going to get easier, but it will get better.