Here’s an example of why representation matters & empowering marginalized voices in filmmaking is important. Someone announced that we shouldn’t have wasted money on the small SWAT uniforms because they won’t be booking any women. And I replied, “It’s 20fucking20. Book women.”

The response “Oh, they never do! if you really want women to play SWAT we can.” OBVIOUSLY WE WANT THAT. Women serve our armed forces in many capacities. Including in full on SWAT gear. It hadn’t occurred to a room of white guys. I’m *just* important enough to say something.

And by saying something change what the world of our film looks like. When we create concept boards for scenes to inform how background artists dress I always include a diversity of people. My goal is to inspire the casting folx to book more diversely & counteract biases.

All of this to say - when you pull up a chair at the big table use your voice to help shape the world (yeah, even a make believe one) to be more inclusive. In any and every way you can.