Introduction
Modern cultural domain in general and media in particular address a multitude of issues representing different populations and their concerns. However, despite the advancement of inclusivity and diversity in education, the workplace, and other spheres, the film and television industry is still a work in progress in terms of equality of representation. The disparities are observed in racial, ethnic, gender, and age-related representation on screen and in the workplace behind cameras. Indeed, according to Eikhof (2017), women are more likely to leave their work in the film-making industry in their 30-40s compared to men. Moreover, as of 2018, in Hollywood, “only 1.3 out of 10 film directors were people of color, and less than 1 out of 10 film directors were female” (“Film Independent Inc.,” 2021, para. 2). This statistic resembles a similar tendency in the population of film writers.
Fortunately, multiple nonprofit organizations are working to bridge the gap in diverse populations’ representation in media. One of the most prominent in the USA is Film Independent. The organization’s website might be accessed through the following link. Web. According to the website, Film Independent is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, its primary field of work of which is “help filmmakers make their movies, build an audience for their projects and work to diversify the film industry” (Film Independent, 2021, para. 2). The company aims to make a change in the film-making industry by bringing together professionals and film lovers. The mission of Film Independent is “to champion creative independence in visual storytelling and support a community of artists who embody diversity, innovation, and uniqueness of vision” (Film Independent, 2021, para. 1). The organization initiates numerous projects, programs, events, and meetings to promote diversity in film-making.
Organizational Overview
As one of the largest nonprofit organizations supporting independent filmmakers, Film Independent has gathered a populous community of members and supporters. The organization was created in 1981 when a small group of directors and film-making enthusiasts started gathering for creative meetings to discuss opportunities for developing independent production (Film Independent, 2021). As the group grew and new projects emerged, the organization began to launch events dedicated to promoting and supporting diversity in the entertainment sector. One of the first projects initiated by the organization, which continues to strive now, is the Film Independent Spirit Awards, launched in the early 1980-s (Film Independent, 2021). Since its beginning, the organization has managed to impact the community of independent artist-driven film-making significantly.
The organization is very transparent in its operations, programs, projects, and engagement with the members. According to the annual impact report of 2020, Film Independent has served and engaged over 7,500 members across 49 US states and 47 countries (Film Independent, 2020). Notably, 50% of Film Independent’s members are women, and 39% are representatives of the BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) communities (Film Independent, 2020). Furthermore, both the board of directors and the organization’s staff are comprised of a diverse population, thus advocating for the representatives of the LGBTQ, BIPOC, people with disabilities, and other under-represented communities.
The current projects being implemented by Film Independent include education, promotion, and production with the priorities set on inclusion and equity. According to the organization’s impact report, Film Independent “connects filmmakers to the resources and networks they need to advance their projects” (Film Independent, 2020, p. 8). Overall, there are several major projects, namely the above-mentioned Film Independent Spirit Awards, Film Independent Presents, Artist Development programs, the Project Involve program, Global Media Makers, as well as numerous events organized by the nonprofit (Film Independent, 2021; “Film Independent Inc.,” 2021). Spirit Awards has been awarding filmmakers for more than 30 years, with 39% of female nominees and 22% of nominees from the BIPOC communities (Film Independent, 2020). Film Independent Presents is “a year-round program offering screenings, conversations and other unique cinematic experiences including the acclaimed Live Read series” (Film Independent, 2021, para. 5). Artist Development programs and filmmakers’ education programs aim to organize numerous workshops, lectures, meetings, and classes to engage filmmakers in independent work and provide resources, tools, and services for their advancement.
Furthermore, innovative approaches are being used to advance and enlarge the community of the Film Independent members. The Project Involve program is one of the most directly addressing the needs of the underrepresented communities since it provides career opportunities for their representatives. On a worldwide scale, Film Independent has launched Global Media Makers, which is a “mentoring and cultural exchange program that connects visual storytellers from around the world with leading US entertainment professionals” (“Film Independent Inc.,” 2021, para. 10). A comprehensively and informatively organized user-friendly webs-ted provides all the information about the organization, its current projects, the schedule of upcoming events, and how people can engage with Film Independent.
Engagement
Conclusively, Film Independent has made a significant impact in media and film-making by providing tools, services, and platforms for talented artists from underrepresented communities to advance their careers. To join the nonprofit or contribute one’s efforts or support to the organization, one might join and like its Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and other social media pages. Notably, the official website of the nonprofit provides detailed guidance for those seeking opportunities to become a member or supporter. For example, the website’s home page contains a banner inviting visitors to support Project Involve Short Films by following several steps. Overall, Film Independent is a successful and promising nonprofit organization capable of driving diversity trends in the contemporary media world. Therefore, it would be a significant professional opportunity to join their team and advance their advocacy principles by helping fulfill their mission.
References
Eikhof, D. R. (2017). Analysing decisions on diversity and opportunity in the cultural and creative industries: A new framework. Organization, 24(3), 289-307.
Film Independent. (2021). About. Web.
Film Independent. (2020). Film Independent impact report 2020.Flipsnack. Web.
Film Independent Inc. (2021). GuideStar. Web.