Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1529398
18 WINTER 2025 and panels, offering attendees a chance to meet and network in an atmosphere where they can feel welcome. Says Martín, "It's been a lightning rod to find like-minded people who want to be their cultural self and their professional self all in one space, because we don't really get to do that on set or at work in general." Social media and website spotlights also serve to highlight the talent—often underutilized—in the Latinx workforce. The challenges Latinx workers face are sizable: implicit bias; assumptions about lack of skill exacerbated by difficulty getting the experience needed to land the bigger jobs; being asked to provide translation services without compensation; specifically to Costumers, the heartbreaking frustration of being required to dress actors in costumes that are offensive stereotypes and having no recourse to address the issue without risking their livelihoods. "I've dressed people, and they say, 'Are you serious? You're putting this gold chain and white tank on me?' They're embarrassed. It hurts. It makes you sick to your stomach and I've even hid and cried," says Martín. The ILC gatherings give members a chance to seek support and advice from their peers who are navigating similar obstacles. Their request for allies? "Believe us, believe us when we say that we have a hard time getting work, or that people doubt our abilities and skill," says Acosta. The future of the ILC is an ambitious one. They hope to reach more members who are interested in organizing, expanding their leadership and capacity, and possibly expanding to additional chapters throughout the country. The ILC advocates for equity, aiming to be included in qualitative labor statistics in DEI Entertainment Industry-related studies and to inform policy by becoming a resource to IATSE when addressing matters that pertain to Latinx workers. www.iatselatinx.org IG: @iatselatinx 2024 IATSE Latinx Caucus meet-up underneath the Hollywood Sign. PHOTO: COURTESY JEN MARTÍN "It's been a lightning rod to find like-minded people who want to be their cultural self and their professional self all in one space…" –Jen Martin