Harvey Weinstein. (Photo: Georges Biard via Wikimedia Commons).
In the wake of the numerous sexual assault, harassment and rape allegations against American producer and studio executive Harvey Weinstein, the Australian Directors Guild has released a statement to its members condemning sexual harassment and bullying within the screen industry.
The ADG’s full statement, released today:
The ADG recognises and acknowledges that sexual harassment and abuse are serious issues impacting the screen industry, including in Australia.
We acknowledge and respect the brave individuals who are speaking up about these issues.
We recognise that our community is using the #MeToo hashtag to challenge the code of silence around sexual harassment at the risk of experiencing further discrimination in the industry.
We recognise that our roles as directors and producers comes with a professional responsibility to not abuse the power dynamic inherent in the relationship.
We expect all our members to take individual responsibility for their actions and adhere to the Australian Human Rights Commission Sexual Harassment code of practice.
We encourage anyone who has been subject to sexual harassment or abuse within the industry to report their complaint to the police.”
ADG president Samantha Lang said it was important that the Australian screen industry recognise the problems highlighted by the allegations against Weinstein and act in the best interests of the industry.
“The ADG supports all women in the Australian screen industry to come forward and report and abusive or bullying behaviour,” Lang said.
The ADG has said it hopes that other members of the screen industry will follow suit and support their colleagues.