Oscars 2018: Inclusivity riders a start but change must come from ground up

For real, long-lasting transformation, changes need to be implemented at the ground level

In her acceptance speech for her Best Actress award at the 2018 Oscars, Frances McDormand caused a stir by calling on actors of all genders to request “inclusivity riders”. An inclusivity rider is a clause included in an actor’s contract, whereby they can demand a certain level of representation among casts and crews on the film they are signing up to. This may be in terms of gender, race, physical or mental ability, or could refer to those who identify with different sexual orientations.

McDormand was supported by fellow actors and industry professionals on social