We're all complaining about diversity in Hollywood, but we've got to address the colorism within the black community of Hollywood first.
Interpretation
The quote emphasizes the need to confront internal issues of colorism within the Black community in Hollywood before addressing broader diversity concerns.
Janet Hubert calls attention to the phenomenon of colorism, which refers to the discrimination based on skin tone within the Black community. She suggests that while diversity in Hollywood is often discussed, it is crucial to first acknowledge and address the challenges related to colorism that exist among individuals of African descent in the industry, as improving these dynamics is fundamental to achieving genuine diversity.
In practice
During a panel discussion on representation in film, one could use this quote to highlight the need for internal community discussions on colorism.
Here's the thing, we talk about diversity in the media as if it's some weird artificial construct that we're putting onto these narratives. But it isn't. Our world is not homogenous. It is not all straight or white or able-bodied, or if it is, maybe you should make some new friends. That is not what our world looks like.
This country isn't a melting pot. Think of this country as a stir fry. That's what this country should be. A place where people are appreciated for who they are.
Diversity is not one in the room. Diversity is not two in the room. Diversity is not three in the room. True diversity is half the room.
Keep in mind that diversity does not just mean black. It means all of it - age, weight, gender.
Diversity is more than just a buzzword to me. It's my life.
We're supposed to be bringing out-of-the-box thinking and innovation, and you cannot do that unless you've got diversity... It's everything from gender to ethnicity to geographic diversity.
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