Equity in Media and Entertainment Initiative (EMEI)
In 2022, GLAAD announced the launch of the Equity in Media and Entertainment Initiative (EMEI), supported by Gilead Sciences. The program was created, and is led by, DaShawn Usher, the Senior Director of GLAAD’s Communities of Color and Media Department, along with Associate Director Julian J. Walker. The initiative is designed as a pipeline program to help address, and begin to resolve, the existing gap in equitable representation in entertainment, particularly when it comes to Black LGBTQ storytellers and people living with HIV (PLWH).
Comprised of three year-long cohorts, the initiative supports different genres of Black LGBTQ creatives across various disciplines: The first year cohort, in 2023, was made up of short form filmmakers. The second year cohort, in 2024, currently focuses on music artists, songwriters, and producers. And a third year cohort, which has yet to be announced, will launch in 2025.
2025 EMEI Cohort: Call for Submissions (Now Open)
GLAAD’s Communities of Color and Media department in partnership with renowned visual artist Mickalene Thomas, is excited to announce the opening of applications for the third year of its Equity in Media and Entertainment Initiative (EMEI). Applications are now open and will be accepted until Thursday, January 16, 2025.
General Questions
What is the Equity in Media and Entertainment Initiative (EMEI)?
EMEI is a three-year pathway program launched by GLAAD in 2022 to address gaps in equitable representation within the entertainment industry. The initiative focuses on empowering Black LGBTQ+ storytellers and people living with HIV (PLWH) through mentorship, professional development, and opportunities to showcase their work. EMEI is supported by Gilead Sciences.
What is the focus of the Year 3 cohort?
Year 3 of the program will support emerging Black LGBTQ+ visual artists, including painters, photographers, sculptors, mixed media artists, and others working within the visual arts.
What is the goal of the EMEI program?
The goal is to amplify underrepresented voices, provide resources for professional growth, and create impactful storytelling and representation through various creative disciplines.
Eligibility
Who is eligible to apply?
Applicants must:
– Identify as Black and LGBTQ+ and/or be a person living with HIV (PLWH).
– Be emerging visual artists (early to mid-career).
– Commit to participating in program activities, including monthly mentorship sessions and professional development workshops.
Do I need formal training in the arts to apply?
No, formal training is not required. We welcome self-taught artists and those with non-traditional artistic journeys.
Can I apply if I live outside of the United States?
Currently, the program is focused on applicants residing in the United States.
Application Process
How do I apply?
Applications must be submitted through [Insert Link to Application Portal]. Be sure to complete all required fields and upload your portfolio and statement of intent by Thursday, January 16, 2025.
What should I include in my portfolio?
Your portfolio should include up to five examples of your work that showcase your style, technique, and artistic vision. Files should be in .jpg, .png, or .pdf format and labeled clearly with your name and the title of the piece.
What should my statement of intent address?
Your statement of intent (500 words or less) should describe:
– Why you’re interested in joining the EMEI program.
– How your work reflects themes of diversity, inclusion, and LGBTQ+ representation.
– Your artistic goals and how the program will help you achieve them.
When is the application deadline?
The application deadline is Thursday, January 16, 2025.
Can I save my progress and return to the application later?
Yes, you can save your progress if you are applying through our online application portal. Be sure to save your changes before exiting.
Program Details
What is the time commitment for participants?
Participants are expected to attend monthly mentorship sessions with program advisors, participate in professional development workshops, and create a body of work for the final showcase. There may also be in person meetings, programming, and events that will occur throughout the year that the cohort, if available, will be invited to participate.
When will the final showcase take place?
The final showcase is scheduled to take place between December 2025 and February 2026.
Will participants receive financial support?
Participants will receive support through mentorship, workshops, and professional development resources. Additional program details, including financial considerations, will be shared with selected participants.
Who are the advisors for the Year 3 cohort?
Renowned visual artist Mickalene Thomas will be a primary advisor for this year’s cohort. Mickalene and GLAAD will be curating special guests to attend monthly calls throughout the cohort term.
Contact Information
Who do I contact if I have questions about the application process?
For questions, please email communities@glaad.org
Where can I learn more about GLAAD and the EMEI program?
Visit glaad.org/emei/ for more information about GLAAD and the Equity in Media and Entertainment Initiative.
Meet the First Year EMEI Cohort
Accelerate Acceptance
Your gift allows us to accelerate equality and acceptance while elevating and amplifying the voices of Black LGBTQ+ communities and queer communities of color everywhere.
Meet the Second Year EMEI Cohort
EMEI Events Photo Gallery
