Academy Sends Letter Affirming Commitment to Diversity Initiatives After Multiple Black Executives Exit (EXCLUSIVE)

variety.com:

Clayton Davis Senior Awards Editor The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences sent a letter to its members on Friday evening, addressing the recent departure of multiple Black executives from its organization over the past few weeks.

Signed by Academy CEO Bill Kramer and president Janet Yang, the statement, obtained by Variety, includes an affirmation of the organization’s commitment to its diversity and inclusion programs, as well as efforts to “expanding” their promotion. “We have heard from some of you who have asked about our Academy DEAI programs as these efforts across our film community and other industries have been called into question,” the letter begins. “A number of Black executives in Hollywood have exited their roles, including within the Academy, and we recognize the concern this creates.

Given all of this, we want to reiterate, in the strongest possible terms, the Academy’s commitment to not only continuing, but expanding our efforts to promote diversity and inclusion within our organization and the film industry at large.” At least four Black leaders at the Academy have left the organization since July 2022 for varying reasons — chief operations officer Christine Simmons; vice president, global relations and member outreach Patrick Harrison (a 22-year-veteran); vice president of impact and inclusion Jeanell English; and, most recently, executive vice president of member relations, global outreach and awards Shawn Finnie.

In addition, the Academy has drawn controversy for its April appointment of Meredith Shea as chief membership, impact and industry officer, who, in addition to overseeing administrative and budgetary items for the Academy, is charged with leading diversity efforts.