As a film enthusiast with a passion for diversity and inclusivity, I wholeheartedly applaud SAG-AFTRA’s efforts to shed light on the challenges faced by disabled actors in Hollywood. Being a lifelong fan of cinema, I’ve seen too many instances where characters with disabilities are either underrepresented or misrepresented, which is not only unfair but also inaccurate.
SAG-AFTRA has created three advocacy videos highlighting the hurdles that actors with disabilities encounter when applying for and trying out for roles within the entertainment sector. These videos were produced under the banner of their “Inclusion: It’s Time to Get Real” initiative, which was introduced in celebration of National Disability Employment Awareness Month.
As a movie enthusiast, I feel compelled to shed light on an overlooked aspect in the world of TV and cinema: the underrepresentation and misrepresentation of individuals with disabilities. A recent Nielsen study reveals that while people with disabilities accounted for 8.8% of screen time in 2022, only a minuscule 0.4% of these representations were characters with visible disabilities. This underscores the urgent need for change and more authentic portrayals on our screens.
Christine Bruno, head of the National Performers with Disabilities Committee, pointed out that individuals with disabilities make up about a quarter of America’s total population. However, in the entertainment and media sector, these performers are often denied equal opportunities, and they remain one of the least represented groups within the industry.
During National Disability Employment Awareness Month, we honor the achievements of actors with disabilities and use this platform to highlight misrepresentations and inadequate portrayals of disability in media. Primarily, it serves as a rallying cry for the industry to pledge efforts towards genuine representation of disabled individuals, establishing them as an essential element within the American cultural landscape.
The videos are:
In a unique collaboration, we present “Authentic Awkwardness,” starring Michelle Hurd from the series “Anyone But You,” alongside Jason T. Gaffney, Michale Bunin, and Khristina LaMonte. This production is also graced by Jack Patterson from “Criminal Minds,” who lends his voice for audio description.
Is it ‘What Can’t Be Done?’ starring Jason George known from ‘Grey’s Anatomy,’ along with Angel Giuffria and Brian Dietzen. This production will be accompanied by the descriptive narration of Nicole Cyrille, also from ‘Grey’s Anatomy.’
Featuring Jeri Ryan, Toni Nelli, Sarah Anne Masse, Diana Elizabeth Jordan, Danny Gomez, Sam Lazarus, Skyler Davenport, Evelyn Stokes, Dr. Cynthia Lea Clark and Nicole Cyrille, this production showcases remarkable courage and bravery.” (With audio description by Cyrille)
The Committee for Performers with Disabilities has excelled in producing a series of insightful short films that tackle crucial matters within the entertainment sector. SAG-AFTRA consistently advocates for the requirements of performers and other employees with disabilities, not just during Disability Employment Awareness Month, but all year round,” stated Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, who serves as both national executive director and chief negotiator for SAG-AFTRA.
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2024-10-16 05:46