On May 7, 2021, the Geena Davis Institute, in collaboration with the Think Tank for Inclusion & Equity (TTIE), hosted an impactful event focusing on the barriers faced by underrepresented writers in the television industry. The event was held to present GDI’s latest research study, “Behind the Scenes Report: The State of Inclusion and Equity in TV Writing,” to advance a discussion on how to achieve a more inclusive and authentic media landscape with leading voices in the industry. Likewise, actionable solutions to address the problem of underrepresentation in TV were shared during the event.
Event Highlights:
Geena Davis opened the event by emphasizing the critical role of storytelling in shaping cultural norms and the importance of tracking progress through annual surveys. Afterwards, Romeo Perez shared key findings from the “Behind the Scenes Report: The State of Inclusion and Equity in TV Writing," which was conducted in partnership with TTIE. The study examined the ongoing challenges of underrepresentation in TV, what underrepresented writers have to face in TV writers' rooms, and the impact that the COVID-19 pandemic had on their careers. Similarly, the report highlighted the persistent barriers faced by underrepresented TV writers and the need for continuous accountability and action.
Afterwards, a fascinating panel discussion was held in which industry experts Steven Canals, LaToya Morgan, Melinda Hsu Taylor, and Y. Shireen Razack discussed their personal experiences, the current state of inclusion in writers' rooms, and some necessary steps to foster diversity to address the problem of underrepresentation in TV. The event sought to provide industry leaders with substantial recommendations and tools to support underrepresented TV writers.
Lastly, the event concluded with a Q&A, in which attendees had the opportunity to engage with the panelists, asking questions on topics such as the impact of the pandemic on writers' careers and strategies on how to advocate for inclusive storytelling. In conclusion, the event underscored the importance of continuous effort to create a more inclusive and equitable television industry, highlighting the collective responsibility of stakeholders to foster an environment in which diverse voices can thrive.
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