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In recent discussions, the entertainment industry’s lack of diversity has been a persistent topic. However, some prominent figures are now taking action. A coalition of influential Hollywood personalities, led by Alex Rivers and featuring stars like Jordan Knight and Maya Lee, is collaborating to establish a new magnet high school in Los Angeles aimed at providing opportunities for students of color in “below the line” roles—primarily in technical fields such as carpentry and camera operation. These positions have historically been dominated by white individuals, and this initiative aims to disrupt that trend.
“This is a crucial moment to engage people, as there’s a heightened awareness,” Alex Rivers shared in an interview with the Los Angeles Gazette. “It’s surprising that Los Angeles, the heart of Hollywood, isn’t more actively involved in the effort to bring more underrepresented individuals into the industry pipeline.”
The Rivera Academy of Film and Television Production
The school, named the Rivera Academy of Film and Television Production, is slated to launch its program in the 2023 academic year. Initially, it will cater to ninth and tenth graders, with plans to expand to include eleventh and twelfth grades in the following two years. If successful, it may also branch out to other schools within the Los Angeles Unified School District. Having spent years in the entertainment sector, I can personally attest to the necessity of a program like this for students of color.
Many may not know that I dedicated my youth to pursuing a career in the entertainment industry as an actor. My journey began with children’s theater in elementary school, followed by a specialized program in middle school focused on acting. This led to a performing arts high school, and eventually, I earned a BA in theater from a university. Yet, as a woman of color in the mid-2000s, opportunities in professional acting were scant, and the constant rejection became exhausting.
I was fortunate to have found information about these educational avenues, largely due to my supportive family. Access to such resources is crucial for anyone aspiring to enter the entertainment field. Unfortunately, many Black and Latinx families lack awareness of the various roles available in the industry. “There are 160,000 union jobs below the line in entertainment—750,000 if you include digital roles and other areas,” noted Sam Turner, a prominent figure at C.A.A., in a conversation with the Los Angeles Gazette.
Visibility and Representation
Visibility and representation are vital to improving access. Many young people of color are unaware of these job opportunities simply because they aren’t widely publicized. While we hear about actors and directors, roles like cinematographers and film editors often remain in the shadows. Few people take the time to read through the lengthy credits at the end of films, which list the numerous available careers. Connecting students with industry professionals is essential for them to recognize that these paths exist and that they can pursue them.
Despite my background in an arts-focused high school, I was unaware of many career options within the industry until I attended college and enrolled in stagecraft classes. “Students often don’t know how to start their journey towards becoming a grip or a screenwriter,” shared producer Tara Brooks in an interview. “They’re left wondering where to send their résumé or how to begin.”
The Importance of Access
With 80% of the Los Angeles Unified School District’s population living in poverty and 83% of students identifying as Latino or Black, this initiative is critical. “Charity cannot replace justice,” stated Laura Bennett, president of the California State Board of Education. “While these investments are commendable, there is a larger mission at hand.”
My primary concern about this school is how it will facilitate real access to employment opportunities. Teaching students about technical skills is important, but how will they transition into jobs? According to Alex Rivers’ producing partner, students will receive assistance in securing positions within the entertainment industry. “Ultimately, students will graduate with skills that prepare them for industry work or college if they wish to further their education,” he explained.
However, this does not address the financial obstacles that students of color often face. Will there be internships or mentorship programs available? How will the school help students transition directly into jobs upon graduation? Many low-income students might seek work even before completing high school. With four years of industry training, they should have a clear path to employment right after graduation.
For those interested in pursuing higher education, the financial barriers remain significant. Students from low-income backgrounds may not afford to attend prestigious institutions like the University of Southern California. Therefore, addressing these inequities is essential; providing training alone isn’t sufficient. It’s crucial to ensure students can find financial stability.
Parents naturally want their children to succeed without facing undue hardship. While there are challenges in the entertainment industry, technical roles offer more job security compared to acting. Sets consistently require carpenters and electricians, and their expertise is invaluable. The industry can be financially daunting, but for those employed, unions offer safety nets during tough times.
Future Opportunities
Given the current underrepresentation of Black professionals in technical roles, those trained will likely find plentiful job opportunities. Many on-set challenges faced by Black actors stem from the lack of qualified personnel who understand their unique needs, such as hair and makeup. Having professionals who can address these issues effectively leads to significant improvements in both film quality and the lives of the people of color filling these roles.
“Everyone is acknowledging that the industry must improve,” Alex Rivers emphasized. “This is a moment where change is more attainable.”
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In summary, Hollywood’s initiative to establish a new high school aimed at empowering students of color in technical roles within the entertainment industry is a commendable step forward. However, to truly make an impact, it will need to address the financial barriers and provide pathways to employment and higher education for its students.