EWA Network opens the talk: Raising diversity in stories is crucial for Human Rights and bringing people together
EWA Network's annual event, usually celebrated during Berlinale, was held for the first time in digital form. Gender Equality & Diversity – the Role of Creativity & Activism was the main focus, and EWA Network's director started her welcome speech emphasizing that the lack of diversity in front of and behind the camera is the result of a systemic bias embedded in how the industry operates.
Watch the recording of the talk
After the welcome speech, an inspiring Keynote by community and human rights campaigner and artist Zita Holbourne, who went through the gender and race discrimination faced by her ancestors and advocated for raising diversity in order to bring human beings together. Holbourne underlined why networks like EWA Network are so important, since they create a lifeline, giving people a safe space to support each other.
The keynote was followed by a panel moderated by journalist and producer Paula Vaccaro, with Holbourne and other participants – including Liisa Holmberg, International Sámi Film Institute commissioner, Helge Albers, managing director of the Filmförderung Hamburg Schleswig-Holstein; and director, playwright, actress and Roma activist, Alina Serban
Part II. EWA members only
After the lunch break. The event went on with the programme for members only.
EWA members went to break out rooms to discuss:
Challenges of Post COVID Releases and the role of the platforms in a conversation with Tine Klint (LevelK)
One Year of Online market & festival activities: lessons learnt. With Brigid O'Shea (Documentary Association Europe)
