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Navigating Change: A DEI Perspective on Media Evolution and NPR’s Path Forward

Effenus Henderson
2 min readMay 9, 2024

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Photo by Vanilla Bear Films on Unsplash

Uri Berliner’s critique of NPR’s shift in journalistic practices provides a foundational discussion on the challenges of maintaining audience trust amidst evolving societal norms and media consumption habits. As a DEI Thought Leader, I find this conversation crucial, particularly as it intersects with demographic shifts and technological advancements that influence media engagement.

It is important to recognize that the landscape of media consumption has radically changed over the past decade, significantly influenced by the preferences and behaviors of younger, more progressive audiences. These audiences often seek media content that aligns with their values on platforms that offer interactivity and on-demand access, such as podcasts and social media. This shift suggests that traditional models of broadcasting and journalism are being challenged not just by ideological shifts but by technological innovations that reshape how news is consumed and engaged with.

The decline in sponsorship and revenues at NPR, as Berliner notes, may not solely be attributed to a perceived ideological shift but also to broader changes in media consumption habits. Younger audiences, who are more accustomed to digital platforms, might find traditional radio less appealing, thereby affecting NPR’s traditional…

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Effenus Henderson
Effenus Henderson

Written by Effenus Henderson

President and CEO of HenderWorks Consulting and Co-Founder of the Institute for Sustainable Diversity and Inclusion. Convener, ISO Working Group, DEI

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