Diversity Databases

IN PROGRESS

U.S. film & television historically underrepresents Black, indigenous and people of color (BIPOC) even as these communities grow as a percentage of the overall population. In recent years organizations across the sector have launched initiatives to utilize technology to ensure productions reflect the U.S. population. The “diversity database” has emerged as a strategy to support equity in film and television, but little research has been done on this new phenomenon. Using qualitative survey and interview methods and tech experimentation, this project investigates the breadth and efficacy of new database technologies as a strategy for employment equity across corporate and independent, for-profit and non-profit organizations in the film and television industry.

QUESTIONS

Why and how have individuals, organizations and collectives started and maintained databases for diversity?

How effective are these databases in securing employment for artists, and how are individuals, organizations and collectives tracking database efficacy?

What role can large, national non-profit organizations like the Sundance Institute play in supporting diversity in the film & television ecosystem?

What role can small, local/regional non-profit organizations like OTV | Open Television play in supporting diversity in the film & television ecosystem?