Three months have elapsed since the sexual misconduct allegations leveled against Harvey Weinstein, and while numerous movements have emerged, there is still ample progress to be accrued for further development in the workplace.
The “MeToo” hashtag propagated in October 2017, but oppression and marginalization have been prevalent since the beginning of time. Sexual extortion was commonly practiced during the nineteenth century, the first sexual harassment law didn’t arise until the 1970s, and today nearly one-half of working women say they have experienced harassment at work.
Females across the entertainment industry and beyond have stood in solidarity by fostering open dialogue about sexual harassment, assault, and misogynistic behavior. Action still takes precedence over words.
Today, both genders are invited to make a stance toward gender equality. Emerging artists who aspire to work in the entertainment industry shared the steps they will take to ensure a positive future:
“Combating oppression in the comedic field, to me, means gathering as many voices of women, and coming together to making something amazing. We can accomplish this by respecting each other and following our guts- watching each other’s backs so we can all succeed. I hope to see more female-written and directed comedies, the understanding that no means no, and equal pay that doesn’t have to be negotiated.” - Comedy Writing and Performance Major Emma Weightman; Portland, OG
“So let’s say I observe my director making a fellow actress do something she’s uncomfortable with. I’d make sure she’s okay and bring this to my director’s attention. I don’t think men should get paid more just because they’re men. I feel like it should be based on merit and how skilled one is at the job.” Theatre Major Andrew Bower; Fort Wayne, IN
“I plan on taking rumors seriously moving forward. There’s truth to every rumor no matter how small. This will prevent people from overlooking one’s character. I hope to see women with enough confidence to speak up.” Film Major Chayil; Chicago, IL
“As an up and coming filmmaker, I firmly believe in upholding a safe and respectful environment for anyone who works for or with me. Regarding the current state of the entertainment industry, this type of behavior towards women should not be tolerated by anyone in the industry, especially those part of newer generations. Be explicit in this message and let others know they are safe pursuing what they love doing.” -Film Major Lucas Miroslaw; France
“As a woman who plans to work in the fashion industry, one that is highly criticized for its sexualization of women, it’s crucial for me to have solidarity with my fellow industry professionals while also creating an open dialogue in order to talk about issues such as sexual harassment and racial inequality. I see that I must not only hear problems but act upon them.” -Fashion Design Major Hannah Jackson; Catlettsburg, Kentucky
“As a filmmaker, I plan on preventing oppression of women in the industry by basing any hiring processes or collaborative opportunities on sheer talent and not gender. I hope to see this as a standard in any industry, including filmmaking in the future.” -Prospective Film Major Korrigan Agen; Fort Wayne, IN
“These incidents are never acceptable, and it’s time we all take a stand. I’m grateful for the women ahead of me beginning the change we need in our industry. I’m proud to be a woman in film; Weinstein has nothing on us.” Film Major Madison Boll;
“I hope we are all on the same page because I don’t let race, gender, or anything get in the way of someone’s work ethic. To move forward, we all have to have a collective, open mind. Be able to adapt to change and speak up. I know I won’t go up and start protesting, but being able to have a sense of good morals is one way to make a change.” -Graphic Design Major Chris Bowling; Chicago, IL
