Finding Black Writers

Concerning Sharon Bernstein’s “ ‘Generations’ Draws Blacks Despite Ratings,” March 26, on the NBC soap opera and its innovative format: I’m happy to know that NBC recognizes the value of the black consumer. But I was not surprised to read that although “Generations” provides opportunities for black actors, most of the people behind the scenes are white.

I am saddened by a quotation attributed to Sally Sussman, creator and executive producer of the show. When asked why only two of the show’s six writers are black, Sussman said: “I don’t know any other black soap opera writers.”

It seems next to impossible that anyone producing today would not know how to find creative talent. If you want a director, call the Directors Guild of America. If you want an actor, call the Screen Actors Guild. If in need of a writer, call the Writers Guild of America.

Seems a simple matter to me, unless one is really not interested in finding black talent.

GEORGE BLAINE JR., Los Angeles