The Double Standard: Why Safety and Respect Remain a Core Challenge for Actresses

The issue of representation and inclusion extends beyond the number of roles to the quality of the support system available for actresses from marginalized groups, including women of color, LGBTQ+ women, and those with disabilities. These individuals face compounded challenges, often dealing with stereotypical or tokenistic roles, a lack of culturally competent production staff, and an elevated risk of microaggressions or overt discrimination. For these actresses, the safety conversation must be intersectional, addressing not just gender-based exploitation but also the biases that affect their casting, promotion, and on-set treatment in ways that are unique to their identity.