Trans, Non-Binary Cast, Crew “At Risk” on Canadian Film Sets, Study Says

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As someone who has always admired the Canadian film industry for its groundbreaking storytelling and diverse perspectives, it’s heart-wrenching to see the struggles faced by trans and non-binary individuals working behind the scenes. The Spindle Films Foundation’s report serves as a harsh reminder that the industry still has miles to go in terms of inclusivity and representation.

In response to efforts by the Canadian film industry to increase portrayal of trans and non-binary individuals in local productions, there has been a stark realization within the industry regarding the prejudice and discriminatory behavior faced by gender-diverse crew members.

The Spindle Film Foundation, known for championing inclusivity and diversity among Canadian filmmakers, recently published a research study highlighting stagnant advancements in the local film industry.

The latest statistics reveal decreasing representation and backing for the LGBTQ+ and gender-diverse community in Canada, alongside legislation being introduced under the pretense of safeguarding parental rights that potentially infringes upon their rights. This situation has sparked concern at Spindle Films Foundation, as it appears that support, security, and affirmation for transgender and non-binary individuals within the Canadian film industry may be in greater jeopardy than they were just a year prior.

The research conducted by the non-profit group focused on transgender, non-binary, and gender diverse individuals employed in the Canadian film industry revealed that approximately half (53%) of the participants encountered negative incidents related to their gender identity during their most recent time on set. On a positive note, 82% of those surveyed shared they had a favorable experience of support while working on their last movie production.

The organization that focuses on increasing opportunities for transgender and non-binary filmmakers, artists, and production teams within the Canadian film industry, uncovered that approximately 57% of its respondents reported encountering “unfavorable incidents” regularly while on set. Those who had “positive experiences” indicated they had an ally in a powerful position on set, were part of a supportive community with other gender-diverse cast or crew members, and found that their preferred pronouns were respected by their colleagues during filming.

On Canadian film sets, many respondents to the Spindle Films Foundation survey shared instances where they encountered challenges due to the usage of non-gender neutral pronouns like he/she/hers or his/her. The researchers of the report found that these negative experiences varied, from being addressed using incorrect gendered language, having to explain and defend one’s preferred pronouns, resistance from colleagues to adopting gender-neutral language, and outright transphobic behavior.

Lawrence Javelin, head of research, education, and accessibility at Spindle Films Foundation, expressed this in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter: “The message that these experiences conveyed was unmistakable – the industry that so many have battled to be a part of does not prioritize the wellbeing of its gender diverse employees.

Laurence stated that the report gathered a broad spectrum of views from transgender and non-binary individuals working within the Canadian film industry. He emphasized, “Our participants ranged from those behind and in front of the camera, including directors, makeup artists, writers, and editors. The presence of gender diverse individuals is prevalent across all areas of the Canadian film industry, which underscores the need for change throughout the entire industry.

Trans and non-binary individuals in the Canadian film industry may face challenges regarding their visibility, as suggested by the opposition. The study’s findings indicate that some respondents have hesitated or chosen not to openly disclose their true gender identities while working on film sets.

One anonymous survey participant shared: “A non-binary performer became a frequent topic of conversation and argument among the team early on, indicating that many weren’t comfortable using ‘they/them’ pronouns, or didn’t fully grasp their significance or importance.

The warning signal issued by Spindle Films Foundation is triggered due to their observation that the amount of regular or recurring LGBTQ characters in TV shows across broadcast, cable, and streaming platforms, as reported by GLAAD’s ‘Where We Are on TV’ report for its 19th edition, has decreased.

A 2023 study conducted by the Union of British Columbia Performers, an organization that represents local actors, along with The Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media, revealed that just 5% of characters in productions filmed in British Columbia, a significant location for Hollywood filmmakers, were part of the LGBTQ+ community. Notably, queer characters were more prominent in TV series and scarcely visible in TV movies produced near Vancouver.

The launch of Spindle Films Foundation’s first report coincides with an ongoing effort by the Canadian film industry, particularly its financiers and labor unions, to promote more diversity and inclusivity on local screens. However, this report focusing on trans and non-binary representation contends that the Canadian industry has not given sufficient attention to showcasing gender diversity for trans and non-binary individuals both in front of and behind the camera and television screens, as it has not been a top priority.

More contemporary actions towards increased diversity in the entertainment industry involve transitions such as the Canadian Screen Awards redefining acting categories to be gender-neutral, and the broader industry applauding the achievements of shows like CBC and Max’s “Sort Of”, a comedy that features Bilal Baig as a non-binary millennial navigating multiple identities among friends and family in Toronto. Other significant strides include films like Luis De Filippis’ “Something You Said Last Night”, a movie centered around a transgender character, and “Any Other Way: The Jackie Shane Story”, a documentary directed and written by trans filmmaker Lucah Rosenberg-Lee and co-produced by Elliot Page.

Beyond red carpet events and gatherings like conferences, the Spindle Films Foundation’s report emphasized that greater efforts are required to elevate trans and non-binary individuals within film crews, casts, and creative roles. This is aimed at increasing their visibility and influence in the industry as a whole, fostering a more inclusive work environment.

The report suggested that feelings of comfort among gender diverse filmmakers when considering a job were largely influenced by factors such as safety, inclusiveness, and a sense of belonging within the community.

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2024-09-19 20:55