NBCUniversal, IllumiNative Launch Consulting Partnership to Increase Indigenous Representation (Exclusive)

Abbey White
·2 min read

IllumiNative and NBCUniversal have launched a new partnership that will see the Native women-led organization leveraging its expertise to increase Indigenous representation across the media company’s portfolio.

Announced Thursday during Native American Heritage Month, the effort will help expand inclusion and representation within NBCU, with a focus on storytelling and talent development. IllumiNative’s mission to amplify contemporary Native voices, stories and issues to advance justice, equity and self-determination will carry through its consulting and recruitment services alongside workshops, conversations and trainings for the media company.

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The partnership will span NBCU’s entertainment and news businesses as well as existing inclusion efforts — such as NBCU Academy, NBCU LAUNCH and Universal’s Global Talent Development & Inclusion — and its parks and experiences division.

“We have seen an overwhelming interest in and demand for authentic Native content, and we are so excited to continue working with NBCUniversal to advance Native representation and visibility,” said Crystal Echo Hawk, founder and executive director of IllumiNative. “Native peoples are breaking barriers and shattering expectations in Hollywood, and we look forward to building on this success and momentum to amplify the incredible work of Native creatives, educate the entertainment industry on authentic storytelling and expand what is possible for our communities.”

IllumiNative is already set to host a conversation for NBCUniversal creative and production professionals focused on best practices and approaches to filming on Native land later this month. Additional sessions are also planned for Universal Destinations & Experiences team members who will be involved in the creation and design of experiences and events appealing to the Indigenous community.

“Our audiences and park guests expect and deserve accurate representations in our global storytelling and experiences,” said Craig Robinson, executive vp and chief diversity officer, NBCUniversal. “Since 2018, IllumiNative has been a passionate and leading voice for the Native Community. Founded and co-led by executive director Crystal Echo Hawk, we are honored to be IllumiNative’s partner in this exciting new initiative.”

These trainings fall on the heels of September’s Native Representation 101 training, which focused on combating stereotypes, definitions in Native American culture and cultural protocols. The event was led by IllumiNative and co-hosted by Indigenous @NBCU, an employee resource group for Indigenous employees and their allies.

“Native voices have shaped the very foundation of our country, yet they have long been underrepresented in media,” says U.S. Rep. Sharice Davids. “IllumiNative does great work in amplifying Native cultures and I applaud their new partnership with NBCUniversal, which will help ensure Native voices are heard and their influence is felt.”

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