The media landscape frequently celebrates universal stories. However, industry gatekeepers routinely decide who gets to embody that universality.
For instance, authors Virginia DeBerry and Donna Grant met with studio executives to adapt their bestselling novel, Tryin’ to Sleep in the Bed You Made. During these meetings, executives proposed replacing the black lead characters with white actresses. Consequently, this change aimed to make the film more "relatable."
This disconnect highlights a persistent challenge for black women in media. As a result, authentic lived experiences are routinely erased in pursuit of broad market appeal.
Therefore, the Geena Davis Institute collaborated with 72andSunny to host a See Jane Salon. The event brought together authors, actors, and executives to examine systemic barriers around Black intellectual property. Held on the eve of Valentine's Day during Black History Month, the gathering focused on creative ownership and the commercial viability of diverse narratives.
Ultimately, the event combined live dramatic readings with a panel analysis covering publishing, ghostwriting, acting, and independent film production.
Madeline Di Nonno, CEO of the Geena Davis Institute, opened the evening. First, she framed the salon’s core mission of elevating media that reflects authentic lives rather than stereotypes.
Next, authors Virginia DeBerry and Donna Grant detailed the origins of their 1997 debut novel, which sold over 800,000 copies. They recounted studio pitch meetings from 1998 where executives insisted universal themes required white leads. Consequently, DeBerry and Grant chose to walk away from these studio deals to protect their intellectual property.
To demonstrate the work's lasting impact, an ensemble cast performed live readings of key scenes. These performances included:
Lastly, the readings concluded with fan letters—including one from a soldier deployed in Iraq—and an emotional Thanksgiving reunion scene between estranged friends.
Following the performance, Dr. Tyra Lindsay Warren introduced the panel, which was moderated by Madeline Di Nonno. Together, the speakers focused on actionable strategies for navigating entertainment industry gatekeeping. In conclusion, the panel agreed that legacy models are becoming increasingly risk-averse. Therefore, creators must form strategic alliances, secure alternative financing, and leverage direct-to-audience distribution.
Data and industry outcomes confirm that systemic gatekeeping limits the reach of diverse stories. Rejecting complex narratives centered on Black women deprives audiences of significant cultural work.
However, the commercial success of Tryin’ to Sleep in the Bed You Made proves that culturally specific stories carry broad commercial power.
For this reason, the Geena Davis Institute uses data and industry convenings to dismantle outdated assumptions. Ultimately, systemic inclusion is both a creative necessity and a major economic opportunity.
Systemic change requires persistent advocacy, rigorous data, and dedicated industry networks. By supporting the Geena Davis Institute, you help fund the research and programming necessary to dismantle gatekeeping. Furthermore, your support helps amplify authentic storytelling across global media.ramming necessary to dismantle gatekeeping and amplify authentic storytelling across global media.
