Wedding Industry Inclusivity: Creating Diversity Through Photography
Hi, I am Hellena! I am an advocate in the gender-based violence movement and an abolisher of mass incarceration of black and brown communities. Uff, that’s a lot, welp not even close; I am a full-time mama, married to a beautiful human, and tell stories through my images. I have been in the wedding industry for over 5 years and have had many experiences working with many communities. So this is what brings me to my topic today, inclusivity; what is it? Does it truly exist in this industry? How are you practicing it? How do I practice it in my business?
What is Inclusivity?
Inclusivity refers to creating a space where all people are truly welcomed, valued and respected — for all of who they are — regardless of differences. Inclusion isn’t the same as tolerance. It’s not about putting up with people who are different but about full acceptance. In an inclusive environment, people won’t feel that they need to hide part of their true self to belong truly. When folks feel a true sense of belonging, and they’re able to bring their whole selves to the space, they’re more likely to feel safe and feel more fulfilled in the process — which benefits everyone involved. *I made some adjustments to this definition.
It is no secret that the Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) and the LGBTQIA communities are highly underrepresented in mainstream media and, for this topic, the wedding industry.
We are in a new era. One where we are striving to uplift communities whose voices have been silenced. An era where our skin, bodies, and identities are embraced and seen. One where we will not stay silent about injustices, racism, and inequality. I am no expert on this topic, so if I make a mistake KNOW, I will actively listen and correct it.
So now that my passion is out, I’ve got you a little hooked.
How do I create a safe place for you all and ensure I am being inclusive?
I am a forever learner! Being an ally isn’t just posting or saying #loveislove or Black Lives Matter or fuck ice; it’s about fighting for the inequality, speaking up for those that can’t, and seeing people for who they fully are. When you book a session with me, you can expect that I come into each session as my most authentic self. All of me – the outspoken, the vulnerable, the most real me.
When you’re in front of my lens, I can guarantee –
- I will see you and show you as you fully are, and our session/event together is a celebration of that
- I will never assume your pronouns but will ask you to share them with me
- I will use inclusive language
- We will not be using traditional gendered-posing but rather work together for what feels comfortable and looks/feels authentic
- I will make it feel as if we have been friends forever
- Most importantly, do anything to be your #1 hype woman!
The wedding industry has a LONG journey to create inclusivity and welcome diversity. However, I know that IT STARTS WITH A VOICE. Regardless, I have made it my business’s mission to be that change that I want to see.
If you want to learn more, I’m linking a few resources below – but please always remember, there is so much more out there, and it’s so incredibly important for you also to do your own research as well:
“Allyship – The Key To Unlocking The Power Of Diversity” – Sheree Atcheson
“How Uplifting Marginalized Communities Uplifts Us All” – Anna Gifty
“BUILDING EQUITY & INCLUSION THROUGH THE POWER OF LANGUAGE” – Utah Division of Multicultural Affairs
“What are pronouns?” – TransHub
Black & LGBTQ: Approaching Intersectional Conversations
All Black Lives Matter: The Intersectionality of the Black Wedding Industry and the LGBTQ+ Community
Mi comunidad know que te veo, te escucho y te valoro. Esta lucha no es solo tuya, aqui estoy peleando por nosotros
I WANT TO CAPTURE AND CELEBRATE YOUR LOVE STORY!
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