Celebrating Women in the Creative Industry
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]International Women’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of women in our industry, as well as shine a spotlight on the issues women have faced, and still face today.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]An honest look at women in the creative industry
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”-6px|auto||auto||” custom_padding=”0px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”-7px|||||” custom_padding=”0px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”]Whilst research has shown that things are improving, the roles and opportunities for men and women are by no means equal. Women are still really struggling to break into the creative industry. Around 37.2% of the UK’s creative and design workforce is female, despite women accounting for approximately 60% of students enrolled in university arts and design courses.
There are several reasons as to why this might be the case, such as gender stereotypes, discrimination and bias. So, what can the industry do to change this?
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”||15px|||” custom_padding=”16px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”]Embracing Equality
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||1px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”]To bring about meaningful change the industry must embrace equality; creating places where women can thrive.
Here are some ways this can be done:
– Track metrics and set goals- this can help companies understand what they do well, and areas for improvement.
– Hold leaders accountable- have leaders review metrics regularly and share them publicly to ensure the correct action is taken.
– De-bias hiring and promotion processes- set clear and specific evaluation criteria that cancels out any conscious or unconscious biases of the process or decision makers.
– Training- upskill managers and staff to gain a better understanding of the issues and how best to deal with them.
– Be flexible- embrace hybrid and remote working and/or be open to healthcare and caregiving needs.
– Call it out- if you witness discrimination or bias, then challenge it and draw attention to the issue.
These are only a few examples which could help to create a more equal working environment. It is important for companies and employers to assess themselves and see how they can best encourage the development of women in the industry.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” min_height=”31px” custom_margin=”45px|||||” custom_padding=”||0px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”]Together is better
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”-6px|auto||auto||” custom_padding=”0px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”-11px|||||” custom_padding=”0px||1px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”]There are so many inspiring women in the creative industry, particularly here in the North East. However, it is important to remember that gender balance is not solely a women’s issue, but everyone has a part to play.
It’s fantastic to see that progress is being made, but there is still more to go. Collectively everyone everywhere can strive for women’s equality and continue to make positive gains.
[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”41px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”]Useful links
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”-15px|auto||auto||” custom_padding=”0px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]International Women’s Day website- https://www.internationalwomensday.com/
Women In Film- https://womeninfilm.org/
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