STATEMENT OF
COMMISSIONER JESSICA ROSENWORCEL
Re: Promoting the Availability of Diverse and Independent Sources of Video Programming, MB 
Docket No. 16-42.
Today we have a dizzying array of channels available to consumers.  We expect programming to 
be available at anytime, anywhere—and on any screen.  On top of that, novel platforms for content are 
cropping up here, there, and everywhere.  The future of watching will not look like the past—and that’s 
exciting.  
But despite all of this change, old problems linger.  Time and again we hear that independent 
programmers face a daunting challenge securing “real estate” on cable and satellite systems.  These 
systems still dominate our video experiences—and securing carriage can be a prerequisite to build the 
viewership that supports investment in more diverse content.  
This Notice of Inquiry tackles these issues and asks hard questions about new voices, new 
viewpoints, and the state of the market for independent programming.  This is important.  Because what 
we see on the screen says so much about who we are as individuals, as communities, and as a Nation.  In 
this season of #OscarsSoWhite and female directors so few, starting a conversation about programming 
diversity and independent voices might be hard—but it is the right thing to do.  Kudos to my colleague 
Commissioner Clyburn for encouraging us to get this discussion started.