CBC Unveils New Programming Diversity Commitment

CBC has announced a new programming diversity commitment to better reflect Canadian audiences and advance equity, inclusion and representation in the Canadian production industry.

CBC’s programming diversity commitment, effective immediately, will require that at least 30 percent of all key creative roles on new CBC original scripted and unscripted series commissioned from independent producers will be held by those who self-identify as Indigenous, Black and/or People of Color or persons with disabilities. Each type of series will have a tailored and genre-specific approach to what is considered a key creative role. For scripted drama, comedy and live-action kids’ series, the 30 percent requirement will apply to all writer, director and principal performer roles.

The new commitment will be included in all CBC contracts with independent producers and will require that producers of current CBC series set action plans to detail how they will work to increase equity and representation across existing productions.

Sally Catto, general manager for entertainment, factual and sports at CBC, said: “We know we have work to do to better represent the voices and lived experiences of creative talent from Indigenous, Black and all racially diverse communities, as well as those with disabilities, all underrepresented groups that are significantly underemployed in the Canadian industry. This new commitment formalizes our ongoing efforts to increase equity and representation across all areas and is an immediate first step in ensuring that our original series will be led by a more diverse range of creative talent who authentically reflect more communities and perspectives across the country.”