Performing the News

In Performing the News: Identity, Authority, and the Myth of Neutrality, author Elia Powers examines the complex relationship between journalist identity and professional presentation. This scholarly work in communication and media studies investigates how journalists from marginalized backgrounds often adopt performance neutrality to satisfy audience expectations. By modifying accents, clothing, and vocal attributes, these professionals attempt to achieve an unobjectionable persona that hides their social identities. This volume explores how such conformity reinforces existing power structures and limits true diversity within the newsroom.

Through extensive research and interviews with broadcasting and podcasting professionals, Performing the News: Identity, Authority, and the Myth of Neutrality challenges the idea that neutral delivery is truly objective. This social science text analyzes how restrictive self-presentation hinders inclusivity in television and digital media. Powers provides critical insights into how the industry can move toward more representative journalism that reflects diverse audiences and breaks away from historical myths of neutrality.