Training and mentoring programmes may open some doors,but decisions are still being made by a handful of Hollywood gatekeepersFrances McDormand stole the Oscars with an acceptance speech in which she placed her award on the floor in front of her and then asked every female nominee in the audience to stand up so that the“gatekeepers” in the room could see whom to contact approximately project ideas. Challenging Hollywood executives to take practical steps to tackle inequality, the best actress winner also called for inclusion riders, or clauses in A-lister contracts that stipulate diversity quotas for a film’s cast and crew,using the A-list actor’s negotiating power to enforce more diverse recruitment practices.
McDormand’s powerful statement shone light on precisely the right spot: because it is with the executives and decision-makers that change needs to start, specifically the hiring and commissioning practices of a highly exclusive circle of influencers. Diversity policy and practice to date has been led by the understanding that if individuals can improve their connections or skills they can succeed in the cultural professions. But that won’t bring change.
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Source: guardian.co.uk