The Why: Han holds an important role in helping tell stories that reflect diverse communities, but it starts from within. Han and the Spectrum News D&I Task Force launched a one-on-one mentoring program for emerging diverse leaders within the organization. Additionally in the past year, she continued to oversee Spectrum News’ partnership with AllSides to help identify and mitigate journalistic bias in story selection, framing and word choice.
She Says… “As local journalists, we are tasked with covering the stories that represent our audience and making sure we are diverse in our storytelling. A strong commitment to authentic DEI not only deepens our reporting, it’s also a guard against bias.”
Place I would love to retire to: Definitely New York City! I love its fast pace and that it’s always changing. I know some people may think I’m crazy for wanting to retire in NYC but for me the city offers everything I need … all at only a $2.75 subway ride away.
How has advocating for DEI benefited your company or department? Spectrum News practices inclusive journalism and strives to give voice to all the communities we serve. As local journalists, we are tasked with covering the stories that represent our audience and making sure we are diverse in our storytelling. A strong commitment to authentic DEI not only deepens our reporting, it’s also a guard against bias.
How have attitudes about DEI changed since you began your career? When I began my career nearly 40 years ago, I never heard the words “diversity,” “equity” nor “inclusion” mentioned in the workplace. Strong and authentic DEI programs either didn’t exist or were not actively promoted. Reflecting back on those early days, I would often be the only woman or person of color in the room. How have attitudes changed since then? Now DEI is ingrained in an organization’s culture. Most organizations have adopted DEI goals with strong support from the corporate-level. There’s still much more work to be done but I would say views on the value of DEI has evolved dramatically since when I started my career.
