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Conversations about the underrepresentation of people of color in the entertainment industry are increasingly common. Now, a group of influential figures in Hollywood, spearheaded by actor Alex Rivers and featuring talents like Maxine Lee and Jordan Brooks, is taking action. They are collaborating to establish a new magnet high school in Los Angeles aimed at providing opportunities for students of color in “below the line” roles—primarily craft-based positions such as carpentry and camera operation. Historically, these roles have been predominantly occupied by white individuals, and this initiative seeks to dismantle that racial imbalance.
“This is an ideal moment to engage more people in this conversation,” Alex Rivers stated in an interview. “It’s illogical that Los Angeles, the heart of Hollywood, isn’t more invested in diversifying the talent pipeline.” The Roybal School of Film and Television Production is scheduled to launch as a program starting in the 2022 academic year. Initially focusing on ninth and tenth graders, the program aims to expand to include eleventh and twelfth graders within two years, with potential growth into other schools within the Los Angeles Unified School District.
As someone who has navigated the entertainment landscape, I can personally vouch for the necessity of a program like this for students of color. My journey began with children’s theater, leading me through specialized programs and a degree in theater. However, as a Black woman pursuing acting in the mid-2000s, opportunities were scarce, and I faced constant rejection.
Many people, including myself, were fortunate to discover these educational paths, largely due to supportive families. Unfortunately, many Black and Latinx families lack awareness of the diverse careers available in the entertainment sector. “There are approximately 160,000 union jobs below the line in the entertainment industry, and about 750,000 if you factor in digital roles,” noted industry expert Sam Carter.
Visibility and representation are crucial for increasing access. Children of color often remain unaware of these career options simply because they aren’t widely discussed. While actors and directors are celebrated, the vital roles of cinematographers and film editors often go unnoticed. This disconnect highlights the need to connect students with industry professionals who can help them understand and pursue these careers.
Despite attending an arts-focused high school, I still had limited knowledge of the various roles within the entertainment sector. We engaged in tasks like lighting and set design, but discussions about translating those experiences into viable careers were rare. It was only in college that I became aware of the breadth of career possibilities available.
Many students are unsure of how to break into the industry, as producer Emma Wright shared, “They often ask, ‘Where do I send my résumé? How do I begin?’” With 80% of L.A. Unified’s student population living in poverty and 83% identifying as Latino or Black, addressing these barriers is vital.
“Charity cannot replace justice,” said educator Lisa Martinez. “While investments like these are commendable, we must tackle the larger systemic issues.” My primary concern regarding the new school is its approach to facilitating access to jobs. Teaching students about technical skills is important, but what pathways will be established to help them secure employment?
According to Grant Ellis, Rivers’ producing partner, the school will assist students in entering the entertainment field. “Students will learn skills applicable to industry jobs or prepare for further education,” he explained. However, this does not address the financial hurdles that many students of color encounter. Will there be internship programs? Mentorship opportunities? For students aiming for higher education, how will the school support their journey?
While visibility is crucial, financial barriers remain the greatest obstacle. Students from low-income backgrounds often cannot afford tuition at universities like USC. Thus, it’s essential for the school to provide direct pathways to success, ensuring students have the means to thrive in their chosen fields.
Parents wish to see their children flourish, and while the entertainment industry can be challenging, these specialized roles present more stability compared to acting. Essential positions like carpenters and electricians are always in demand. With the current lack of Black professionals in these crafts, those with the right training could find ample opportunities. It’s important to recognize how having individuals who understand the nuances of lighting and makeup for diverse skin tones can enhance productions.
“Everyone understands that the industry must improve,” Alex Rivers concluded. “This is a pivotal moment for change.”
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Summary
Hollywood is making strides to empower marginalized communities through a new magnet high school focused on providing access to below-the-line entertainment jobs for students of color. Led by prominent figures, this initiative aims to educate and connect students with industry opportunities, addressing systemic barriers in the entertainment field. Emphasis on visibility, support, and financial assistance is crucial to ensure the long-term success and representation of diverse talent in Hollywood.
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