Ever since I was a child, I felt a deep connection to the power of words and the boundless creativity that flowed through me. It wasn't until my junior year of college that I mustered the courage to change my business major to creative writing and film production, and that decision led me on a path of self-discovery. Stepping into the Arts building, I found myself surrounded by a vibrant community of fellow artists – writers, painters, and filmmakers alike. Little did I know that this journey would test my aspirations and make me question the essence of my artistic dreams.
Like many fresh-faced graduates, I encountered the daunting challenge of breaking into the entertainment industry, especially in a city where opportunities were few and far between, like Cleveland, Ohio. Although I occasionally worked on film and TV productions that passed through my city, those chances were scarce. I pursued a career as a school administrator during the day, but the fire of creativity burned within me, urging me to pursue my passions. I hungered for more. Life carried on swiftly – promotions, additional degrees, a well-paying job, a loving husband, and a child. Yet, a lingering emptiness gnawed at my core.
It wasn't until the loss of my mother in 2018 that I felt the dormant fire within me ignite once again. Adversity served as a catalyst for change, pushing me to pursue my passions with unwavering determination. I took on directing and producing a documentary – a story that deserves its own telling. I dived into creating children's books and crafting television and film scripts, hoping to realize my dreams of becoming a TV writer or finding my place in the industry. Over time, I made significant progress toward these goals, driven by a renewed sense of purpose and the realization that opportunities for aspiring artists are more abundant today than they were two decades ago when I first graduated.
However, as the current Writer's Guild of America (WGA) strike and the SAG-AFTRA strike unfold, I find myself contemplating what these events mean for the future of artists. These industry strikes carry weighty implications for artists, present and future. They shed light on issues of fair pay, working conditions, and creative autonomy that affect all artists. However, for people of color and women, who are already underrepresented and undervalued, these strikes take on an even greater urgency. They remind us that the fight for equitable representation and opportunities is an ongoing battle, and we must not allow progress in these areas to be derailed or forgotten amidst the negotiations.
While strikes may disrupt the industry's normal functioning, they can also serve as catalysts for change. Aspiring artists should view these strikes as opportunities for self-reflection and redefining success. Breaking into the industry may require thinking outside of traditional opportunities and embracing unconventional means.
The challenges faced by artists in the wake of these strikes are formidable, but so is the collective strength of our voices and the power they carry.
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