BlackLight is a community for people of color to empower one another through life, performance, & well-being.
We are a launchpad for artists who want to take their skills to the next level in a supportive environment. Becoming an ally of Blacklight, we encourage tough conversations about racial oppression, discrimination, and unfairness. We advocate for putting these discussions into action. Our approach uses social justice theories and ideas that are important to have equity in Theatre and TV/Film. Our community attracts people of color who want to be a part of the change and our allies believe that their contribution and time will develop a healthier dynamic of inclusion within the entertainment industry.
We are committed to:
Pre-graduation in 2016, India Shanelle noticed a lack of representation within the staff and students at Southeast Missouri State University Theatre & Dance Conservatory. It became apparent when SEMO produced shows that were period based or heavy on discrimination, there wasn't enough representation within the department (Both faculty and Students) to execute the shows appropriately. She noticed the struggle of the teacher's firsthand. The professors struggled to express to minority actors what they needed within the context of racial issues or moments in the script that required diving into oppressive content.
She started a support group called BlackLight for black people in the department to have a space to vent and artistically express themselves.
After graduating, India began her theatre career nationwide and realized that proper minority representation did not exist. After moving to New York City in 2019, she was inspired by NYC's integration of culture. Her mentors/friends like Andre Stith, Amanda Leive, Karl Hawkins, and Kaylin Kellin, inspired her to solidify BlackLight Community legal representation to open doors for poc artists in theatre nationwide.
2020 was a direct reflection on what minorities face every single day and it was the catapult to show people what we need to focus on moving forward, which is equal representation across the board, thus bringing importance to our mission at BlackLight Community Inc.
QUILK LINKS
Want to be a part of our team?
If you are interested in gaining more experience in the entertainment industry, send us your resume with a cover letter explaining your skills and how you can benefit our community. Most positions are volunteer-based.
Email us at
QUILK LINKS
Want to be a part of our team?
If you are interested in gaining more experience in the entertainment industry, send us your resume with a cover letter explaining your skills and how you can benefit our community. Most positions are volunteer-based.
Email us at
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