Ethnic Minorities and Television

The use of and attitudes to television of 182 people of `Asian origin' in the city of Leicester, UK, purposively selected with regard to age, gender and ethnic group, were studied by means of interviews and discussion groups. Although there were marked differences at all levels between and even within the various minority groups, there was a well nigh unanimous criticism of the negative way television was perceived as portraying ethnic minorities and Third World countries. Looking to the future, although there was no unanimity about the use of language, special provision or the establishment of separate channels, there was a widespread wish for more `Asian involvement' and a more balanced presentation which would `present us as we really are, an integral part of a multicultural society, not in well-worn stereotypes or in special slots'. Television was not seen as contributing to the development of a multicultural society.