Posted on December 3rd, 2024 

Empowering and positioning yourself as an artist is more than just refining the skills under bright stage lights or behind the camera’s lens. It’s about understanding the tapestry of your experiences, the narratives you weave, and the world you wish to reflect through your art. As you navigate this path, you might quickly perceive that it's laden only with complexities and challenges unique to women. Yet, I insist that the landscape of entertainment and media is overwhelmed with booby traps specifically designed to entrap children. This is a topic that is not enough addressed, neither by pastors or popes, but I believe that it is absolutely necessary for women and mothers, particularly those already in the industry, to speak for children exposed and working within the same field.  

Your place in this journey is pivotal. From everyday choices such as the roles you embrace to the broader advocacy you champion, each decision contributes to a larger narrative of authentic artistry. As advancements unfold and awareness heightens, it's encouraging to see more women taking on leading roles both on stage and behind the scenes. However, this shift doesn't happen overnight, and it’s not solely the work of grand gestures; it is in your daily endeavors and collaborative efforts where change takes root. Navigating this landscape often entails reevaluating industry norms, challenging unjust exposure and actions to child and women actors, defying stereotypes, and persistently advocating for just treatment and opportunities for underrepresented faces and voices. There's great need, but "greater is He who is within you than he who [thinks and behaves according to the pervasive and perverse ways in the world of entertainment]." 1 John 4:4

Interesting Data

Statistics reveal that only about 37% of plays produced in the U.S. are written by women, highlighting the disparity in who crafts the narratives that shape our culture. Additionally, women artists often face scrutiny over both their appearance and their expertise, compounded by societal expectations that can stifle creativity and limit opportunities. As we explore such barriers, it's crucial to understand how to disconnect from "below the line" bias and to align everyday with our true identity as women that stems from the very heart of Yahweh's (God) thoughts concerning us. 

Work-life balance is another challenge that women in the arts frequently encounter. The unpredictable nature of artistic careers often requires late hours, extensive travel, and financial insecurity, which can conflict with family duties that women often fulfill. 

Yet, by implementing more supportive infrastructure, such as flexible schedules, equitable pay, and accessible childcare options, we can help women continue to pursue their passion without sacrificing the most important aspect of their lives--family! Encouragingly, some theater companies and film studios have begun recognizing these needs and are working towards more inclusive environments. Your role, as an emerging or established artist, is crucial here—advocating for systemic changes in your circles can hasten societal shifts. Most importantly, I cannot stress enough the need, not the option, although it is, to PRAY!!! Pray about every decision you need to make as an actor. In fact, be proactive in prayer and not merely reactive, having made a poor decision that is bound to effect your entire household. Keep your heavenly spouse (the Lord) and your earthly spouse in the loop at all times. In fact, as more in-person auditions begin to open up again, it is crucial to let your spouse or some close family member or friend in on where your audition will be. Do NOT base your communication, or lack thereof, on meeting with a "big name." Be diligent and let your appointments be transparent to your family for your protection. 

Finally, onto representation! According to research, women make up only 31% of speaking roles in films, a stark demonstration of under-representation. When we look into directing, writing, and crew roles, the figures can become even more disheartening. However, empowering women in the arts involves actively creating and promoting content that showcases diverse female experiences and leadership. One real-life example includes the creation of networks and platforms specifically for female artists, like women's film festivals and directorial workshops, which provide opportunities for mentorship and collaboration. By actively seeking diverse talent and prioritizing these voices, we collectively work towards a far more just, artistic landscape. So, consider how you can be part of that change—whether it’s by supporting women artists, shaping narratives that reflect their realities, or simply listening to their stories with an open heart and mind.