A Black Writer’s Grief
Artist Stament
Research question
What role does the intersectionality of black creatives play within those who are trying to get their ideas heard within the entertainment industry and what is currently being implemented to ensure that these voices are actually being heard and utilized, not just being allowed in a room to reach a certain quota?
Summary of Research
I found through my research that not only does intersectionality play a major role in terms of gender, but black artists are being hired to conform to DEI statements industries have—however, they are not being promoted. Black creatives are maintained through stagnancy, making it easier for industries to push them down instead of moving them up. since there is this level of stillness, it makes it harder for black voices to be heard, because, in fear of saying the wrong thing, a creative can move from limbo to purgatory. Black women have an especially hard time moving up the reigns because not only do they have to compete with their white counterparts, but there's also climbing over the aspect of being a woman and being seen as simply creative. I read many interviews from Variety, LA Times, and the Hollywood Wire that discussed the different perspectives of black women and black men's journeys into creative freedom within the industry.
Why Poetry?
I chose poetry as an art form because it is my main form of artistic expression. I intertwined it with screenwriting because that is a form of creative writing that interests me greatly and given the topic of black creators, specifically black writers within the entertainment industry; I thought it was the best way to represent my thoughts.
Social justice statement
Black voices matter, and black creativity can only be told through the experiences and stories of black artists—no more or no less. Entertainment industries should follow through with their DEI statements, not just on a surface value. They need to follow them through and through, not only to ensure that black creatives aren't being held hostage in a no-promotion zone, but to also ensure that other POC voices are being uplifted as well. Creativity should have no bounds—artists should feel free, inspired and supported regardless of race, background, sexual orientation, gender or social standing.