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Local organization provides support to women in film and TV

Posted at 4:43 PM, Dec 11, 2017
and last updated 2017-12-11 18:17:13-05

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- With mounting sexual harassment accusations against top men in Hollywood and television, members of a Kansas City organization want everyone to know they can come to them for help and advice.  

Erin Zimmerman has heard the stories. She’s President of Kansas City Women in Film and TV.  

“Film and television is not diverse enough. Usually, when people tell me it is, they are of the majority,” she said. 

The group’s membership has grown from 80 in 2015 to around 150. And Zimmerman is calling on all women in the industry and supporters to join in on the call to action.  

“Women feel like it’s a men’s club,” she said. “If there’s a recurring pattern especially, but even if you see something happen once…reach out to someone and let them know.”

Zimmerman said speaking up is an important and effective way to break down barriers and the climate as we know it. It’s going to take a group effort from women and men alike.  

“We will hold people accountable, and I think as tough as it is to watch some of this on the news and hear the stories, it’s also super important because it’ll help other people come forward with things like this,” Zimmerman said. 

To learn more about Kansas City Women in Film and TV, click here.  

The group is also hosting a member appreciation night. Proceeds benefit the organization’s scholarship fund. To learn more about that, visit here.