**
Addressing Systemic Challenges in the Global Screen Industries Report
from the Durban FilmMart 2024 Safer Spaces
Roundtable
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In
July 2024, the Durban FilmMart Institute (DFMI) convened a think tank
session titled "DFM Safer Spaces Roundtable" to address
critical issues affecting the global screen industries. This event,
co-curated by Themba Bhebhe and Marion Schmidt, brought together
diverse voices from across the continent and beyond to tackle topics
such as cultural safety, political safety, sexual harassment, power
dynamics, and accountability.
The
session was inspired by initiatives like #DocSafe and driven by
DFMI's commitment to fostering a more equitable environment for
African screen professionals. The roundtable sought to create a space
for open dialogue, sharing of experiences, and collaborative
problem-solving around these pressing concerns.
Participants
from the film community identified key challenges, including the lack
of formalized structures and protocols, the vulnerability of
filmmakers and film workers, the disproportionate influence of
funders and institutions, and the need for solidarity, collective
action, and empowerment.
The
discussions highlighted the importance of accountability and
restorative justice, as well as the necessity for systemic change
through policy, training, and education. Participants also emphasized
the need to address the capitalist and post-colonial pressures that
often prioritize profit over the well-being of workers and
communities.
The
insights and recommendations from this session are not meant to be
final answers, but rather a continuation of an ongoing conversation.
DFMI is committed to implementing the lessons learned and to
continuing these crucial discussions, with the hope of inspiring
further action and change across the global screen industries.
You
can read the full report here by clicking on the below link.
REPORT
(https://durbanfilmmart.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/DFM-2024-Safer-Spaces-Report-FINAL-VERSION.pdf)
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