Breaking the Sonic Color Line

Our industry has a problem. Despite the fact that today’s American population is nearly 40% non-white, the voices we hear in the media – broadcast, animation, commercials, etc. – are still broadly white by default, largely due to legacy casting practices that date back to the mid-20th century. Our lack of progress has inspired many to break the “sonic color line” and eliminate the biases plaguing our industry. Tune in to hear from voice talent creative directors, and media executives as they discuss the evolution of the authentic voice in media, racial stereotypes in voice acting, the impact of race in audio ads, and how the industry can come together to make real change.

Programming descriptions are generated by participants and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of SXSW.

photo of Joan Baker
Joan Baker

Society Of Voice Arts And Sciences

photo of MC Lyte
photo of Roger Sho Gehrmann
Roger Sho Gehrmann

SiriusXM/Pandora

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