“Black voices should be celebrated 365 days a year,” says Lisa Holme, Group SVP of Content and Commercial Strategy for Discovery, about discovery+’s new “Black Voices Hub.” The hub will live on the platform year-round, with curated series, documentaries, and specials. Holme shares what it’s all about, and what’s ahead.
What is the genesis of the “Black Voices Hub”?
We have such a depth of content on the platform – from family entertainment to home renovation to paranormal and beyond. We are constantly looking for ways to connect viewers with shows that they love watching. We’ve seen such a positive response at just how robust our offering is.
Who chooses the content, and what are you looking for?
The programming on the Black Voices hub is gathered by our editorial team, who works closely with the scheduling departments across the networks while getting input from our Multicultural Alliance group, among others. We are always looking for a wide range of programming, whether it’s series, documentaries or specials to take viewers on journeys that are entertaining and empowering. We want stories about love, entrepreneurship, or adventure — any subject, as long as it sparks a conversation.
Is there a project that’s especially exciting coming up?
There is so much content coming up. Where do I start? One project that immediately stands out is the docu-series “Uprooted,” launching this Friday. “Uprooted” tells the story of Keith Warren, who was 19 years old when his body was found hanging from a tree in 1986. The police ruled it a suicide, but there are still many unanswered questions. Keith’s sister, Sherri, has spent the last 34 years investigating the case as she searches for closure. Our partners at NowThis did an incredible job uncovering new information and gaining access to those most intimately involved. This is a story about the fight against injustice and corruption that resonates as much today as when it first occurred.
