What ProPublica Is Doing to Build a Diverse and Inclusive Workplace
3 minute readPublished: Tuesday, September 2, 2025 at 10:00 am
ProPublica Releases 2025 Diversity Report, Highlighting Efforts and Impact
ProPublica, a non-profit newsroom dedicated to investigative journalism, has released its 2025 diversity report, detailing its ongoing efforts to build a more inclusive and representative staff. The report highlights the organization's commitment to removing barriers for qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds, including those with disabilities, low-income backgrounds, veterans, people of color, and women.
Over the past year, ProPublica expanded its staff from 186 to 193 full-time employees. The organization has invested in resources to support its diversity initiatives, including a talent acquisition manager focused on refining the hiring process. ProPublica has also established partnerships to provide investigative journalism training and mentorship programs. A shared holiday calendar was created to promote awareness of diverse religious celebrations. A Diversity Committee, comprised of over 50 staff members, drives these initiatives.
The report also showcases the impact of ProPublica's journalism, citing investigations that led to policy changes. These include new federal rules regarding the repatriation of Native American remains, a Wisconsin sheriff's office developing a policy for those with limited English proficiency, and increased staffing at the Department of Veterans Affairs. ProPublica's reporting also contributed to legislation in Minnesota and Virginia aimed at protecting vulnerable communities.
In 2024, 52% of finalists for 27 filled positions identified as women, and half identified as being part of a racial/ethnic group other than solely non-Hispanic white. At the start of 2025, 63% of all ProPublica staff members identified as solely non-Hispanic white. Women represented 52% of editorial positions. ProPublica continues to focus on building the pipeline for investigative journalism, recruiting talent, and improving its hiring process. Initiatives include conference stipends, an emerging reporters program, and the Investigative Editor Training Program. The newsroom also attends affinity conferences, publishes salary ranges for all posted job openings, and has a union.
BNN's Perspective:
ProPublica's commitment to diversity and its impact on policy changes are commendable. While the report shows progress, continued efforts are needed to ensure the newsroom reflects the diverse communities it serves. Transparency in reporting and ongoing initiatives are crucial for fostering a more inclusive environment.
Keywords: ProPublica, diversity, inclusion, journalism, hiring, staff, women, race, ethnicity, investigative journalism, training, mentorship, policy changes, transparency, recruitment.