The Conversation on Parity Gets Reframed

A stamp for TV honors series hiring women of all races in front of and behind the camera

E XC LU S I V E

THE PATH TO parity in television has been a slow one. Women comprised only 27% of key decision-making behind-the-scenes roles, from show creators to directors, writers, producers, editors and directors of photography, for the 2017-18 season, according to the Boxed In report from the Center for the Study of Women in Television & Film at San Diego State University. And that was actually down one percentage point from the previous year.

Reframe, a coalition of industry pros founded by Women in Film and the Sundance Institute that advocates for equal representation in the entertainment industry, is hoping to change the conversation with its new “stamp for television,” recognizing shows that hire women, and especially women of color, above and below the line. While female-focused storytelling and lead acting roles are key criteria, additional weight is put on behind-the-scenes jobs — from writers, producers and directors to department heads and crew members.

“The intention is not to dictate content.