According to a recent report by the Centre for Literacy in Primary Education (CLPE), there has been a noticeable decrease in the representation of racially minoritised characters in children’s books. The survey revealed that the percentage of children’s books featuring racially minoritised characters dropped from 30% in 2022 to 17% in 2023. The term “racially minoritised” refers to individuals who have been marginalized through processes of power and domination.
Although there has been an increase from the 4% reported in 2017 when the survey first began, this marks the first year-on-year decline. Farrah Serroukh, the CLPE research and development director, expressed disappointment in the findings but also highlighted the cyclical nature of publishing trends that can impact inclusion efforts.
The report also noted a significant decrease in the number of racially minoritised main characters, dropping from 14% to 7% between 2022 and 2023. This decline is concerning, especially in the wake of racially motivated riots that occurred last summer. It is crucial for all children to see themselves and characters that look like them in the books they read.
Out of the 5,884 titles reviewed for the study, only 999 featured racially minoritised characters. Interestingly, picture books were found to have a higher proportion of racially minoritised characters compared to fiction or nonfiction books. The report emphasized the importance of making inclusion a fundamental part of the publishing process and not just a response to social injustice.
The rise in background characters from minoritised backgrounds, along with the decrease in main characters, could lead to tokenistic representation rather than meaningful presence. The report calls for the publishing industry to recognize the significance of inclusive literature and ensure that it is a standard requirement in all stages of book production.
In conclusion, efforts to promote diversity and inclusivity in children’s literature must be ongoing and not just limited to specific audiences or events. By making inclusivity a fundamental aspect of the books we consume, we can ensure that representation remains a priority regardless of external circumstances.