PBS today announced several new long-term initiatives to support diversity in public media. They include a commitment to create a pipeline of diverse documentary filmmakers and a pledge to include more diverse perspectives in key production roles.
PBS also announced it will launch on the video-focused social media platform TikTok. PBS President and CEO Paula Kerger announced the initiatives Tuesday at the TCA Winter Press Tour.In a new partnership with Firelight Media, the non-profit filmmaking organization founded by Stanley Nelson and Marcia Smith, PBS is committing $3.6 million over three years to support mid-career nonfiction filmmakers through the org’s William Greaves Fund.
The Fund, which resources talented storytellers from diverse communities in the U.S., is designed to address the persistent structural challenges many filmmakers face after producing their first films.
Firelight Media and PBS will hold a joint open call for filmmakers to submit projects for potential funding by PBS.In an effort to support diverse voices across public media, PBS also announced a comprehensive initiative that includes an early-career filmmaker mentorship program and an executive fellowship program.
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