The Konnect: Diversity In Film, a DEI event aiming to advance diversity in Massachusetts Film & TV, took place on April 2, 2022 at the Roxbury Branch of the Boston Public Library. The first hour featured a presentation of a general industry overview to over 150 members of the community, by the Secret Society Of Black Creatives (SSBC) and industry partners for this event – including SAG-AFTRA, the Massachusetts Film Office, and the Massachusetts Production Coalition as represented by Local 481 Business Manager Chris O’Donnell.
Afterwards, attendees moved to the second floor where they had the opportunity to meet with behind-the-scenes industry professionals across a wide variety of crafts represented by the Local Unions, including IATSE Locals 161, 481, 600, and USA829. Visitors had the opportunity to discuss our crafts, the industry as a whole, and how they might pursue careers as a member of the IATSE. Local IATSE members from each of the Locals were present at various stations to answer participants’ questions and gauge whether individuals may have potential interest and/or transferable skills that could lead to follow up by the appropriate Local.
Local 600’s table was hosted by Director of Photography Julia Liu, 1st AC Jill Tufts, and Digital Utility Keenan Kibet Kimetto, and staff members Anna Nowlan and Chaim Kantor.
