Authenticity, Representation and Advocacy at Forefront of Women’s Diversity Panel

The Los Angeles Local Women’s Committee presented the In Her Words: A Women’s Roundtable panel on Sept. 16 at SAG-AFTRA Plaza. Featured panelists included actor-director Javicia Leslie (God Friended Me), actor-influencer Lauren “Lolo” Spencer (The Secret Lives of College Girls), actor Amy Aquino (Picket Fences), and actors and Latinas Acting Up Co-Founders Lisa Vidal (Being Mary Jane) and Diana Maria Riva (Dead to Me). Actor and SAG-AFTRA National Board member Michelle Hurd (Star Trek: Picard) moderated the panel.

The roundtable discussed a multitude of topics, offering attendees insight into how each panelist has developed her career within the industry. Many shared their personal experiences with ageism, noting it as a continued barrier toward on-screen representation; however, others spoke of observing a positive shift toward viewers being more open to seeing older women play more multifaceted roles, citing recent examples of popular shows.

“People are showing up and watching — even when the lead character has gray hair!” said Hurd, referring to the success of HACKS actor Jean Smart.

The panelists went on to stress to attendees the importance of practicing self-advocacy in all facets of their professional and personal lives, and offered words of encouragement toward building self-confidence and finding community.

The panel was presented with the support of the SAG-AFTRA National Women’s Committee. 

Photo: From left, actor-director Javicia Leslie, actor Amy Aquino, actor-influencer Lauren “Lolo” Spencer, actor and SAG-AFTRA National Board member Michelle Hurd, and actors and Latinas Acting Up Co-Founders Lisa Vidal and Diana Maria Riva commemorate the ‘In Her Words: a Woman’s Roundtable’ panel on Sept. 16.