IS THE ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY LOSING THE FIGHT FOR DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION

In recent years, initiatives looking to boost the inclusion of Black and Racialized voices in the Entertainment industry have increased in numbers. Recently, some events have raised awareness that those initiatives might be decreasing, with several D&I departments being reduced or closed and Racialized staff members being let go while their white counterparts' jobs remain intact.

This panel will explore the current landscape of diversity and inclusion within the entertainment industry. What advancements have been successful, and should we be concerned about the sights of regression? What do the statistics reveal about representation, both on and off-screen?

In an era when the demand for representation and inclusivity is louder than ever, this conversation examines the industry's progress, challenges, and ongoing journey toward creating a more equitable and reflective cultural landscape.

MODERATOR

Dalton Higgins - Publicist, Journalist, Author

Dalton Higgins is a publicist, journalist, author of six books, and an educator. Higgins’ publicity roster clients have won Grammy Awards (USA), BET Awards (USA), Emmy Awards (USA), The Mercury Prize (UK), Victoires de la Musique (France), and Juno Awards (Canada). His university course “Deconstructing Drake and The Weeknd” has been featured on CNN and in the New York Times.

SPEAKERS

Kadon Douglas - Executive Director of BIPOC TV & Film

Kadon Douglas is an arts and culture enthusiast driven by a commitment to equity and justice. As the Executive Director of BIPOC TV & Film—a vibrant community of artists, entrepreneurs, and leaders in the screen sector—she advocates racial justice and equitable policy-making, develops opportunities for career advancement, and celebrates diverse storytelling. Before her role at BIPOC TV & FILM, Kadon spearheaded dynamic marketing and communication approaches at The Creative School at Ryerson University, as well as at Women in Film & Television-Toronto. She is a graduate of the Hot Docs Doc Accelerator and Diverse Voices programs, and is a 2023 Globe and Mail Top 25 Most Influential People in Canadian Television.

Shane LaTouche - Associate Producer & Production Manager, Insight Productions Ltd. Executive Director, Toronto Black Media Association

Shane LaTouche is the Founder and Executive Director of the Toronto Black Media Association. He is also an Associate Producer and Production Manager on The JUNO Awards (2022-2024), The Legacy Awards (2022 & 2023), and Canada’s New Year’s Eve (2021 & 2022).

Hillary LeBlanc- Co-Founder Podcast Black a journalist who advocates for various minorities, Fashion sustainability and speaking on her passions. Co-founder of the podcast BlackLantic, her unique lived experience brings an invaluable skill set and level of understanding to her interviews. She has worked with CBC, ByBlacks, Fashion Magazine, AnnKM, gone to New York Fashion Week, performed red carpet correspondent work and interviewed high-profile celebrities.