Breaking the News

"Breaking the News" serves as a powerful catalyst for change in journalism, illuminating the urgent need for diversity and accountability within the industry. This documentary showcases the challenges faced by The 19th, an agency dedicated to elevating women and LGBTQ+ voices in newsrooms at a time when many traditional outlets are closing their doors.

With approximately 50 newsrooms shuttered in the UK alone in 2020, the film demonstrates the critical importance of fostering diverse perspectives in journalism. It highlights that while women earn 68% of journalism degrees, only 41.7% of newsroom employees are women, exposing the "leaky pipeline" that prevents qualified individuals from securing positions in the field. Additionally, the staggering fact that one-third of LGBTQ+ individuals experience online homophobia underscores the necessity of inclusive reporting to combat bias and promote equity.

By engaging viewers with spirited storytelling, "Breaking the News" not only informs but inspires action. It prompts communities and policymakers to reconsider how news is produced and who gets to tell those stories, ultimately advocating for a more just and representative media landscape.