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The Need for Diversity in Video Production
The video production industry has historically struggled with diversity. A study by the Center for the Study of Women in Television and Film revealed that in 2023, women comprised just 24% of all directors, writers, producers, executive producers, editors, and cinematographers working on the top 250 grossing films.
The numbers are even starker for people of color, with only 16% of directors from underrepresented racial and ethnic groups. This lack of representation often leads to content that fails to resonate with diverse audiences, perpetuating stereotypes or overlooking important narratives.
Moreover, research has shown that diversity in creative teams leads to more innovative and financially successful productions.
A McKinsey report found that companies in the top quartile for ethnic and cultural diversity were 36% more likely to have above-average profitability. This data underscores the value of incorporating diverse perspectives, not just as a social good but as a business imperative.
Goodsides' Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
A Foundational Principle
At Goodsides, our commitment to diversity and inclusion is not just a value but a foundational principle that guides every aspect of our operations. As a certified Minority Business Enterprise (MBE), we actively ensure that diverse voices, faces, perspectives, orientations, and communities are thoughtfully incorporated into every project we undertake.
We understand that true representation goes beyond surface-level inclusion—it requires intentionality and rigor in every phase of production.
Comprehensive Representation
Going Beyond the Basics
In our productions, diversity is non-negotiable. We recognize that authentic representation requires more than just meeting minimum standards; it demands a deep, deliberate effort to reflect the full spectrum of the communities we serve. Even when our government clients suggest names or locations for interviews, we take the time to go beyond these recommendations during the pre-production phase.
Rigorous Vetting and Inclusive Storytelling
We thoroughly vet all elements to ensure they reflect the broad spectrum of the communities we serve. Scripts and on-screen content undergo rigorous checks to guarantee accuracy, cultural relevance, and appropriateness. Our dedication to inclusive storytelling means we must go deeper—asking the right questions, spending additional time with interviewees, and ensuring that we capture the most impactful, authentic narratives.
Advocacy and Commitment
Building an Equity-First Ecosystem
Goodsides is dedicated to fostering a video production ecosystem that exclusively supports organizations with strong equity-first policies. We understand that the strength of our productions lies not just in our internal practices but also in the integrity of our collaborations.
Strategic Partnerships and Leadership Oversight
When we collaborate with subconsultants or suppliers, we ensure that these third parties share our commitment to diversity and inclusion. This strategic approach is integral to our mission, as it ensures that every partner we work with is aligned with our values. Our CEO personally oversees that our company's workforce and partners maintain balanced representation. This leadership oversight reinforces our production as a public declaration of our dedication to social equity and holds us accountable to our commitment.
Sensitive and Nuanced Storytelling
Handling Complex Narratives with Care
We recognize that some stories require a heightened level of sensitivity and nuance. Whether addressing the erasure or displacement of historical landmarks, communities, or movements, Goodsides approaches each project with the care it deserves.
Ensuring Context and Depth
We are committed to ensuring that the full context of these narratives is respectfully and accurately portrayed. By doing so, we aim to showcase the complexity and depth of these stories, providing a voice to those who may have been marginalized or overlooked, and making sure that their stories are told with dignity and respect.
Ongoing Education and Mentorship
Continuous Learning for Sustained Impact
To maintain our high standards, all Goodsides staff participate in anti-bias refresher training annually. This ongoing education is critical to ensuring that our team remains aligned with evolving best practices in diversity and inclusion, allowing us to consistently produce content that is both equitable and impactful.
Rigorous Recruitment and Partner Vetting
Our recruitment process is equally rigorous. We start with a thorough examination of the holistic backgrounds and experiences of potential contractors, partners, and employees. We routinely audit the diversity policies and workforce composition of our partners to ensure alignment with our values, ensuring that every collaboration strengthens our commitment to inclusivity.
Empowering Underrepresented Groups Through Mentorship
We are particularly proud of our mentorship initiatives, which prioritize opportunities for minorities and women within the communities we serve. By actively nurturing their skills and promoting them within our organization, we are not just fostering individual growth but also contributing to a more diverse and dynamic industry. Our internal mandate to perform multiple good deeds each year includes mentorship programs for aspiring directors and creatives, furthering our commitment to fostering the next generation of diverse talent.
Exceeding Industry Standards
Setting New Benchmarks in Diversity and Inclusion
Goodsides is committed to not only meeting but exceeding industry standards for diversity and inclusion. Our efforts are more than just best practices—they are a reflection of our core mission to create meaningful, impactful content that champions social equity. We stand as advocates for a more inclusive future, and our productions serve as a testament to this ongoing commitment.
Leading the Charge for an Inclusive Future
Through our Diversity and Inclusion Program, we are not just meeting expectations—we are setting new benchmarks for what it means to be truly inclusive in the world of video production. Our leadership in this space is not just about compliance; it’s about pioneering a more equitable industry where diversity is the norm, not the exception.
We invite you to join the conversation on diversity and inclusion in the video production industry. Whether you have questions, feedback, or ideas on how we can further our efforts, we want to hear from you.
Please feel free to reach out to us—let's work together to create a more inclusive and equitable future in video production.
