Women of Color Unite (WOCU) Tackled “The Colorism Issue in Hollywood,” During a Panel Discussion at Soho House, West Hollywood
HOLLYWOOD, CA – Women of Color Unite (WOCU), hosted a panel discussion on the issue of colorism in Hollywood. The event was held at Soho House, West Hollywood, on February 13, 2020. The panelist included Cheryl L. Bedford, founder of WOCU, Fanshen Cox, Pearl St. Films, Zetta Elliot, black feminist writer, Akosua Lesesne, educator, Annie McKnight, comedian, Diana Elizabeth Jordan, actor, and disability inclusion activist.
The panel was co-moderated by Bedford and Cox. Both led discussions on topics including what is colorism, how do we combat colorism, and how can women of color with lighter skin help combat colorism, just to name a few. The lively and frank discussion was one that allowed everyone in attendance to speak their truth in a safe non-judgmental space.
Those with Darker complexions spoke of their many personal encounters with mistreatment and exclusion; while their Lighter-skinned sisters acknowledged the relative advantages and courtesies granted them within this slanted social and economic system. Consistent throughout the morning’s discussion was the tenacious pervasiveness of this bilateral treatment in Media and Entertainment, from studio executives to below-the-line production PAs, Colorism persisted and became more dug in as one moved up the industry ladder.
Action items were discussed and laid out so each individual could be an instrument of change. “Action with Support” was the takeaway from the panel. Self-inventory and making an intentional decision to be a person that speaks against unfair treatment because of skin pigmentation, resonated throughout the panel. Everyone left with the assurance, that standing beside them in their efforts were over 1,000 women of color supporting and advocating for them.
WOCU will host many events throughout the year, including the Disabled Women of Color in Entertainment Panel, the Just Mercy screening, the Annual WOCU Gala, and the highly anticipated panel on Sizeism with Jameela Jamil and IWeigh.
About Women of Color Unite (WOCU)/The JTC ListWomen of Color Unite (WOCU), is a 501c3 non-profit founded by producer and advocate, Cheryl L. Bedford. It is the largest organization of its kind. Comprised of over 1k women of color, the organization advocates against discrimination based on gender, race, age, size, sexual orientation or disability. It is a social action organization focused on fair access, fair treatment and fair pay for women of color in all aspects of the entertainment and media industries. To learn more visit: https://wocunite.com/.
WOCU board members are a resource of knowledge on topics of diversity and inclusion in the entertainment industry. To book a speaker or schedule an interview, contact Amy Malone, 323-972-4081 or amy@gicpublicrelations.net.
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