There's a belonging problem in Hollywood. Who dictates who belongs? The very body who dictates that looks all one way.
Ava DuvernayRead
There was a time when I was knocking on doors and concerned with being recognized in dominant culture. I've found a space where the terrain is different, where I'm embraced by people like me, and where I'm building new ways of doing things, as opposed to trying to insert myself in a place that might not be welcoming.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects the journey of finding one's own space and community rather than conforming to mainstream expectations.
Ava Duvernay expresses her transformation from seeking validation and recognition in a dominant culture to discovering an environment where she feels accepted and empowered. This realization allows her to engage in innovative practices and establish a new identity without forcing herself into spaces that are unwelcoming. It emphasizes the importance of belonging and the value of creating one's own path.
Themes
BelongingCommunityInnovationSelf-AcceptanceChange
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about diversity and inclusion, one could quote this to highlight the importance of safe spaces.
More from Ava Duvernay
All quotes →I just don't think there's a lot of support for the woman's voice in cinema, and it becomes really difficult to raise that money and start again every time.
Ava DuvernayRead
I didn't go to film school. I got my education on the set as a niche publicist in the film industry.
Ava DuvernayRead
I think for female filmmakers a big issue is making their second and third films.
Ava DuvernayRead
When we say there's a dearth of women directors, it's not that there's a lack of women who direct: it's a lack of opportunities and access for women to direct and be supported in that.
Ava DuvernayRead
I intend to be making films until I'm an old lady. So, if God willing I get there, I need to create a paradigm for myself where I can make it regardless of whether or not they still like what I'm making.
Ava DuvernayRead
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