Description

Michelle Sugihara, Executive Director of CAPE, shares how the Coalition of Asian Pacific’s in Entertainment is fostering collaboration among diverse organizations, creating a supportive network within the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities, coalition-building, and amplifying voices and driving systemic change on stage and in front of and behind the camera.

Read more about Michelle here.

Takeaways

• CAPE has been advocating for Asian Pacific Islander representation since 1991.
• Representation begins on the page, which is why CAPE focuses on writers.
• The entertainment industry is cyclical, with shifts in opportunities for diverse voices.
• Coalition building is essential for amplifying underrepresented stories.
• The conversation around representation is becoming more nuanced and intersectional.
• Failure is a necessary part of creativity and risk-taking.
• CAPE is a resource for both high-level executives and entry-level professionals.
• Community is crucial for marginalized artists to uplift each other.
• The industry is currently facing contraction, affecting opportunities for diverse voices.
• Young artists should not compromise their identity and should build their networks.
• The journey of an actor requires persistence and adaptability.
• Community support is vital for artists to flourish.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to CAPE and Michelle Sugihara

02:15 CAPE's Mission and Programs

04:50 Impact of Representation in Media

08:55 Coalition Building and Community Engagement

12:40 Future Challenges and Opportunities for CAPE

15:44 Navigating Industry Changes and Representation

19:54 Advice for Young Artists and Marginalized Voices

22:12 Closing Thoughts and Future Aspirations

Connect with Michelle on Instagram

Connect with CAPE on Instagram

Check out CAPE on their website

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Connect with Grant on Instagram

Connect with In The Podlight on the Website

The Team:

Caroline Liem – Producer & Host

Grant Kretchick – Producer & Host

Cris Graves  - Producer & Editor

David Margolin Lawson  - Composer

Emily Yaneth Perez – Administration

In the Podlight is produced in collaboration with Pace University – Sands

• The thoughts, opinions, and views expressed by the guests, hosts, and producers of this podcasts do not necessarily reflect those of Pace University.