Issa Rae Says “Diversity Needs a Better Publicist”

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Issa Rae has repeatedly expressed her discontent over Hollywood’s slow progress in telling diverse stories, and the problem has only worsened since her previous comments on this topic.

On a Saturday panel at South by Southwest, the writer-actress reiterated the topic during discussions following numerous diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in Hollywood being closed down or renamed under the second Trump administration’s firm anti-DEI policy. Rae stated, “In my opinion, diversity needs a more effective PR team.” She further explained, “The swift rejection of any attempts to create a level playing field and prioritize our narratives, I believe, stems from a large misconception and fear.

Rae went on to joke that her own publicist was too busy to take diversity on as a client.

Reflecting on previous disappointments, she expressed a touch of hope regarding the upper echelons of Hollywood’s leadership. (In a 2024 Time magazine feature, she stated that “there aren’t many intelligent executives now.”)

Some of these incoming executives are determined to bring in fresh perspectives, even against opposition, and they do so while risking their positions,” she stated. “I respect those who continue to advocate for varied narratives, even when faced with directives.

Rae was one of the initial prominent personalities who chose to disassociate from the Kennedy Center following Donald Trump’s takeover, assuming the role of chairman. While her views on America’s shift towards conservative politics weren’t explicitly stated during the conversation, they were implicitly hinted at. According to Rae, there can be negative consequences when Hollywood figures speak out too loudly.

As a passionate advocate, I often find myself reflecting on the responsibility placed upon celebrities to speak out. Frankly, I believe it’s more effective for everyone to lend their support to those who are actively making a difference, quietly and without fanfare. This approach, in my opinion, is the most potent means of instigating change. Instead of seeking the spotlight, we should look for grassroots activists and give them our full backing.

Sharon played a key role in endorsing the mini-series titled “Seen & Heard“, which delves into the narrative of Black portrayals on television, highlighting both their history and exploitation. We aimed to create an exhaustive account so we could substantiate the claim that many TV networks thrived off our depictions. It’s regrettable that we barely have anything tangible to show for it. All I can say is that history often repeats itself.

In a more conversational style:

Sharon was instrumental in pushing the mini-series “Seen & Heard“, which takes a close look at Black characters on TV, showing both their evolution and misuse over time. We wanted to create a thorough account to prove that many networks benefited greatly from these depictions. Unfortunately, there’s not much to show for it in the end. It seems like history keeps repeating itself.

There was a sense of hopefulness, particularly when the discussion shifted towards her latest achievements as a producer – notably, the SZA-Keke Palmer comedy titled “One of Them Days“. Jacqueline Coley, an awards editor at Rotten Tomatoes, inquired about her methods to tackle the doubts surrounding the project.

Rae clarified, “You can sense our exasperation. What we truly yearned for was a chance to thrive. Merely achieving a theatrical debut was a significant achievement for us.

One of “Them Days” – currently showing in cinemas – has already earned approximately $50 million, an impressive figure given its relatively low budget. The film “Seen & Heard” will be screened at South by Southwest on Saturday evening, and is expected to air on HBO and Max later in the year.

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2025-03-09 00:25