Channel 4 Refuses To Release Racism Report As Leaked Emails Reveal Internal Unease Over Replacement For “BAME” Acronym In 2021
deadline.comEXCLUSIVE: Channel 4 has refused to release the findings of an independent review into whether it is an anti-racist organization, saying that putting the document in the public domain would have a “chilling effect” on internal diversity discussions.
The British broadcaster, which has a unique remit to champion under-represented voices, blocked the release of a review by consultancy Caerus Executive following a Freedom of Information Act (FOI) request by Deadline.
Instructed by Channel 4 last year, Caerus interviewed current and former staff members and provided advice on creating a “truly inclusive and anti-racist environment.” In its decision to refuse release, Channel 4 said Caerus provided a “free and frank” analysis of the broadcaster’s progress, but publishing the document would “inhibit” internal discussions over implementing the recommendations.
Channel 4 said it was important to create a “safe space in which participants can be totally candid in offering their views and advice.” Publishing would have a “chilling effect” that could damage the quality of decisions, the broadcaster added.
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