The art and film world is often thought of as place of openness and tolerance-- yet that is not necessarily the case. The ‘art world’ shares the same prejudices faced in the real world.  Forms of sexism, racism, and ageism dominate art culture just under the surface-- which dictates our collective knowledge of art history. This is a topic that few want to discuss-- because it is a topic that, more often than not, reveals a world of bigotry and unnecessary challenges placed before artists of all types and all genres.

“Prejudice within the art, theater, literary and film world surrounding race is a big issue, “says JJ Rutherford, Education Director for History Colorado.  “For example, you never read an article about an artist or an actor starting with so-and-so is a ‘Caucasian performer from…’ to describe someone who happens to be white. That said, if an artist or actor is from any other racial background you can almost be assured that race will become a descriptor for that artist’s efforts—‘African American artist from…’, ‘Hispanic actress from…’ The list goes on.”

While it is true that race can define an artist’s visual, verbal or written message-- if that is his or her direction-- placing race before artist is not a sound choice to define an artist or actor in general.

The panelists include:

Stephany Rose, Ph.D.:  activist, public commentator and assistant professor of Women’s and Ethnic Studies at the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs.  She is often called upon to expertly address and consult on issues concerning race and gender dynamics in American popular culture and society.

Jeff Campbell, actor, author and facilitator of arts education programs in Colorado public schools:  has been part of Denver’s creative community for more than 20 years.  He is a pioneering Hip Hop and spoken word artist in addition to the work he does in Colorado public schools.  He recently wrote and performed his first play, a one man show entitled Who Killed Jigaboo Jones: A One Man Mocumentary on the Hip Hop industrial complex.

Peter Trinh, professional actor:  a Colorado native with a BA in Theatre from Metropolitan State University of Denver, Peter has worked actively as a professional actor in Denver for the past 10 years. Credits include film, television, industrials, voice-over, improve, stand-up comedy and theatre.  Most recently Peter has a principle role in the feature film, Frank, which premiered at the 2014 Sundance Film Festival. He also will star in the regional premiere of the one-man show, Occidental Moon, with Theatre Esprit Asia in 2015.

Linda Hogan (Chickasaw): former writer in residence for the Chickasaw Nation and Professor Emerita from the University of Colorado is an internationally recognized public speaker and writer of poetry, fiction and essays.  Her newest books are Indios (Wings Press, 2012), Rounding Human Corners (Coffee House Press, April 2008, Pulitzer nominee) and the well-regarded novel, People of the Whale (Norton, August 2008).  Linda has also published several other novels and has won both national and international awards for her work.

History Colorado’s RACE exhibit provides a context for understanding diversity from a scientific, cultural and historic perspective.  By serving as a hub for thought-provoking discussions about our past, History Colorado helps Coloradans understand better how to shape the state’s future.  This includes raising awareness of how unconscious bias and stereotypes limit opportunities for people.

“Racism persists precisely because people will not talk about it,” says Ed Nichols, CEO of History Colorado.  “We are all impacted as human beings by this issue.  With the changing demographics in Colorado and the changing attitudes toward identity in our country, we saw the opportunity through this exhibit and our programs, to bring the topic of race into a conversational mode – not to highlight strife but to open and enhance communication among Colorado citizens about who we are.”

Admission to the FWD discussion, Doors Open.  Doors Closed.  Can We Laugh, Dance, Write Poetry and Sing About Race? is $4 for members and students; $5 for non-members.  For more information, call 303-866-2394.

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History Colorado's mission is to inspire generations to find wonder and meaning in our past and to engage in creating a better Colorado. We serve as the state's memory, preserving the places, stories, and material culture of Colorado through our museums, educational programs, historic preservation grants, research library, collections, and outreach to Colorado communities. Find History Colorado on all major social media platforms. Visit HistoryColorado.org or call (303) HISTORY for more information.