Research by the Irish Theatre Institute (ITI) has determined that artists and creatives from marginalised groups, such as minority ethnicities, disabled individuals, and those identifying as LGBTQIA+, are being hindered by the prevalence of homophobia, ableism, racism, and transphobia. Artists of these groups often lose chances due to these instances of discrimination, as revealed by the recounted experiences of a broad range of artists included in the research.
Whether they’re involved in visual arts or theatre, most participants of the survey have faced discrimination. The ITI’s Safe to Create initiative ascertained that 43% of LGBTQIA+ artists have been victims of microaggressions due to their gender identity or sexual orientation. On the other hand, 40% of minority ethnic groups have dealt with racial bias and a staggering 56% of artists with disabilities felt workplace exclusion because of inadequate care.
The research also discovered that substantial numbers of intellectually disabled employees were not given enough time for their creative endeavours. Grainne Pollak, the project manager of Safe to Create, noted that these staggering figures, largely emphasising marginalised LGBTQIA+, disabled and ethnic minority artists, reveal serious flaws in the sector, particularly the absence of dedicated studies and lack of sufficient engagement by publicly subsidised art institutions.
The 18-month research program also pointed out a significant absence of awareness and understanding, and a lack of commitment within the sector; 60% of survey participants were hesitant to bring it up for fear of damaging their reputation.
The case is personalised in the experience of Emilie Conway, an Irish jazz vocalist, who confessed to initially concealing her visual impairment. It took considerable courage for her to embrace her true identity without feeling the need to overcompensate or gloss over her disability. She believes in the power of speaking up for reform, giving others with disabilities the courage and opportunity to step forward in the arts sector.
Coimisiún na Meán, the Irish media regulatory body, has published a strategic study on Gender, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (GEDI) for the nation’s media industry. It brings attention to the necessity for stronger approaches towards supporting women and ethnic minority groups involved in various areas of media production in Ireland, such as film, TV, radio, audio and animation.
In an Electric Picnic event, the festival director acknowledged the challenge in maintaining gender equality due to a significant lack of female key performers.
Rónán Ó Domhnaill, the media development commissioner of Coimisiún na Meán, made statements regarding the GEDI initiative, affirming the Coimisiún’s commitment to fostering programmes that augment the media industry’s diversity in Ireland. He added that through their specific growth strategies and financial support systems, they plan to back activities designed to create a more inclusive Irish media sector.