In a candid conversation on The View, Sunny Hostin addressed the recent allegations swirling around ABC News executive Barbara Fedida, who is accused of making racially insensitive remarks about Hostin and other prominent figures at the network. These comments reportedly targeted Hostin, Good Morning America anchor Robin Roberts, and other on-air talent. Let's dive deeper into what Hostin had to say about this situation, which has sent shockwaves through the news industry.
Hostin Shares Her Emotional Reaction
During the Monday, June 15, episode of The View, Hostin opened up about how the allegations have personally affected her. "It was a tough weekend for me," she began, her voice tinged with emotion. "When I learned about the alleged racist comments directed at me, my colleagues, and my dear friends, I was truly disappointed, deeply saddened, and hurt. This is not just an attack on us as individuals—it's an attack on the values we hold dear as journalists and as human beings."
Unpacking the Allegations
Hostin elaborated on the specifics of the allegations during her segment on The View. "If these claims are true, it’s alarming," she said. "To compare Robin Roberts—one of the most respected and beloved journalists in our country—to picking cotton? To label me, someone who has been open about growing up in public housing, as 'low rent'? And to dismiss Kendis Gibson, my former office mate and now an MSNBC anchor, by saying he isn't worth paying as much as ABC spends on toilet paper? These aren't just words; they're actions that perpetuate systemic racism."
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Systemic Racism in Journalism
Hostin didn’t stop there. She went on to highlight the broader implications of these allegations. "The fact that Mara Schiavocampo, a friend and former colleague at ABC, has an NDA preventing her from speaking about her experiences tells me something bigger is at play here," she noted. "Systemic racism affects everyone in our society, no matter their social standing. It's pervasive, and it's time we acknowledge that no one is immune to its reach."
ABC News Responds
The Huffington Post reported that more than a dozen individuals have raised concerns about Fedida’s behavior in the workplace. In 2016, Fedida faced a human resources investigation but was allowed to remain in her position as Senior Vice President of Talent and Business Affairs after hiring an executive coach. However, recent events seem to be prompting change.
Following the allegations, ABC News placed Fedida on administrative leave while launching an independent investigation, according to The New York Times. Fedida denied the accusations through a statement provided by her attorney. "Throughout my career, I have been a champion for increased diversity in network news," the statement read. "Building a news division where everyone can thrive has been my life's mission. I am proud of my decades of work hiring, supporting, and promoting talented journalists of color. Unlike these heartbreaking and misleading claims, my track record is well-documented and undeniable."
For those looking to learn more and take action, visit BlackLivesMatter.com.
