Lines have been drawn that perpetuate racism in every industry.
Some of these lines can be seen. Others can be heard.
These are sonic color lines - invisible but pervasive barriers that reward white voices and marginalize voices of color.
Today, we’re taking a stand for sonic diversity. Will you stand with us as we work to open our ears, and the ears of everyone around us, to a world that is more sonically diverse?
Together, we can break the sonic color line and redefine the sound of the American voice.
- Pledge your name and your organization to the following actions today
-
- Make a specific, measurable, and public commitment to casting Black voices.
- Diversify internal talent rosters, strive to have BIPOC represent at least 50% of the roster.
- Adopt the Stand for Sonic Diversity Best Practices, and distribute to all creative contributors, stakeholders and vendors influencing audio creative.
- Stand For Sonic Diversity - Best Practices
-
- Strive to have Black voices represent at least 15% of the total voice over roster.
- Diversify casting and aim to increase Black voice talent cast by 30% over 2020 totals
- Refuse to support casting where white voice actors are cast in Black roles.
- Never direct Black voice talent to sound “more black” or “less black” or use “blackccent”
- Diversify voices cast for the “general market,” rather than defaulting to the use of a white voice
- Audit casting practices on a regular basis to ensure adherence to diverse casting practices.
- Extend DEI efforts to all those making decisions regarding voice casting and scripting.
- Establish and engage a review process to identify and flag stereotypes in creative work.
- Engage professionals who can work with your teams to encourage active listening, acknowledging the sonic color lines we draw in our lives, our work, and our communities.