On Air and In the Know
Written by Antoinette, reporter & anchor
When I knew I wanted to go into the media industry, I knew it wouldn’t be an easy journey. First, I’m a woman. Second, I’m a Black woman. As women, we face so many hurdles and obstacles that our male peers don’t. But, as Black women, our obstacles are doubled – and sometimes even tripled – when compared to our non-bipoc male and female peers.
So far in my career, I’ve been fortunate to experience opportunities that I’ve always dreamed of. These opportunities have given me the chance to work on camera and utilize the skills I worked so hard to develop and perfect while in college. I’ve been able to create stories that matter to me, and I have learned so much about the world around me. However, through my journey, I’ve also been exposed to the reality of what it means to be a Black woman in the media industry.
I’ve been told I’m not “relatable enough” to viewers and that audiences don’t feel that I’m “professional enough.” When I first heard those words, I was hurt because I knew that I indeed am relatable and professional. But, when I thought about them long enough, I knew they were coded language that had everything to do with my race and appearance, and nothing to do with my work performance.
I’m a dark-skinned, Black woman with big, beautiful hair. I understand some may not be used to a TV personality with a look like mine, but I've worked hard to get to where I am and will continue to do so.
Most recently, I was overlooked for a promotion that was given to someone who didn’t have the same educational qualifications as I do, nor the skill. It wasn’t lost upon me that this person also happened to be a white man. It became crystal clear to me what “relatable” and “professional” meant in this instance and in this space.
As much as my skill and work ethic contribute to where I am, knowing I am unique also drives me to push forward. As mentioned before, I knew this industry wouldn’t be an easy ride, but I strive to be an example for all young women who look like me and have similar dreams as me. It’s a fight we will all face in some capacity, but I’m willing to take on the challenge.