Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1475555
sagaftra.org | Summer 2022 | SAG-AFTRA 35 identity authentically, or in her own words, the "fullness of herself." "From the moment I [started] auditioning, I was very honest with them about still learning and engrossing myself in that part of my identity. Part of my authenticity was saying, 'I need my people around me; I need to see people who look like me,' and it was also knowing that I [wasn't] always going to get everything right, but it didn't make me any less of what or who I am. West Side Story was an opportunity for me to embrace all of that and be proud of it." Her Kraven character, Calypso, has not only presented a different set of challenges and opportunities, but also offers a way for DeBose to continue making her characters as real to audiences as they are to her. "Calypso in the comics is a Haitian Voodoo priestess, but I'm [playing her] as someone of Haitian descent. And I honor that [in the film], but what that means is she's only been presented in one way. As an actor, [I] want to be as respectful as possible — and I'm big on respectful portrayals — and find compassion and empathy for the character." Authenticity has also played a major role in DeBose's off-screen life. As a longtime member of both SAG-AFTRA and Actors' Equity Association, she appreciates the role unions have played in her career, and she champions unionism for her fellow performers. "I believe unions are a source of protection, both in the physical and the business [sense]," says DeBose. "No matter what union you're a part of, it's still show business, and my unions have been there to protect me. "Having colleagues who are very much still doing dance-based work, we have conversations frequently about how we can show up in a stronger way or how we can ask better questions — and also help provide solutions. It's one thing to identify problems; it's another thing to show up and be part of the conversation. When you feel the most comfortable and supported, you [can be] an advocate from a space that is brighter and lighter and more active." Additionally, since the now-historic overturning of Roe v. Wade in June, DeBose has been among many public figures to vocalize a need for systemic change, and she has put her feelings toward action. She is active on the board EMILIO MADRID "WHEN YOU FEEL THE MOST COMFORTABLE AND SUPPORTED, YOU [CAN BE] AN ADVOCATE FROM A SPACE THAT IS BRIGHTER AND LIGHTER AND MORE ACTIVE."