I find it challenging to tell Black and Brown stories to White executives, as our experiences aren't parallel. For many years, I was torn about even adding my name to projects, likewise applications, resumes and other important documents.
I understand that the stories I tell, comedy, drama, reality and animation are all a part of my make up, surroundings, values, personality, morals and core being. I write to inform, engage and entertain. I write for the love of art and passion for unity. I'm comfortable being uncomfortable. It's apart of the process.
Thank you Stage 32 for providing a diverse platform. Thank you for inspiring an African American mom of three, from a small town, told she would never do anything with her life. "She said she would and she has." Looking forward to sharing Success Stories soon! Blessings to RB and the Stage 32 team/family!
1 person likes this
Rashika, thanks for being here on Stage 32! All the VERY BEST to you!
2 people like this
I've authored 35 screenplays. Five of those were stories about people of color. Two were written for producers, one for a television actor and the other two were scripts were concepts that inspired me. I've also written trans people characters, Hispanic, Asian and Native Americans. I like my work to be diverse and to feel as honest as possible.
Congrats on your work and all the best.
3 people like this
He Rashika. I've had similar experiences. Writing and ptiching screenplays to executives from the point of view of someone who wouldn't have my life experiences. In the past I've had fear of presenting work that truly represented people of color but recently I've been forging forward with screenplays that may upset a certain class of people.
2 people like this
Rashika R this is really easy for me to say coming from the most privileged group in human history (white man in the west). But those people aren’t worth your time.
The only advice I can offer and hope that it helps in some lame way.
Try to start with a money lead. One thing they love more than being blind to their privilege is money.
Craig D Griffiths great advice! And yes, that is the most impactful approach!!
2 people like this
Over at Twitter-verse, a whole bunch of working writers, filmmakers & producers have made it their new mission statement to help Black/POC writers.
1 person likes this
You are not alone on this journey of gaining the courage to being unapologetically you in your writing.
2 people like this
Who cares whether you tell black, brown, red, yellow or white stories? It's the story that is important - not what color (or gender) it is.