The creative sector's elite have rallied around the establishment of CIISA amidst a flurry of recent accusations, notably those levied against Russell Brand. Helena Kennedy, a renowned international barrister and a formidable figure in the British Parliament, has been tapped to helm a watchdog organization in the U.K., tasked with delving into instances of harassment and abuse pervading the realms of music, film, television, and theater.
In a heartfelt open letter last month, luminaries such as Keira Knightley, Cara Delevingne, Emerald Fennell, and Rebecca Ferguson passionately appealed to creative organizations to lend their support and funding to the Creative Industries Independent Standards Authority (CIISA). The head of Bectu, the formidable union representing broadcasting, entertainment, communications, and theater professionals in the U.K., disclosed to The Hollywood Reporter this week that CIISA's launch is imminent, its foundation fortified by the gathering momentum of funding commitments.
The consensus among both industry leaders and government officials is unequivocal: the formation of CIISA is imperative. Amidst a backdrop of damning allegations, including those against Russell Brand and within the BBC's Strictly Come Dancing, the need for an autonomous body to combat discrimination-fueled bullying and harassment has emerged as a pressing imperative.
"The birth of an Independent Standards Authority for the Creative Industries marks a pivotal moment," Kennedy declared. "A vast majority of artists and cultural professionals operate as freelancers, leaving them particularly susceptible to abusive and exploitative practices. A meticulously crafted framework is paramount to fostering fair and respectful working environments for all. Furthermore, I envision CIISA as a blueprint for other sectors grappling with similar challenges. It will serve as the go-to authority for anyone facing misconduct. I am eager to lead the Board and contribute to its establishment, ushering in a new era of accountability and dignity within our vibrant creative landscape."
Baroness Helena Kennedy, a distinguished Labor member gracing the halls of the House of Lords, has recently been adorned with the prestigious Order of the Thistle in Scotland, a testament to her extraordinary dedication to human rights and social justice endeavors, spanning both the shores of the United Kingdom and beyond. As a pivotal figure directing the Institute of Human Rights under the International Bar Association, she has not only championed the recognition and defense of PTSD within British courts but also blazed trails in the relentless battle against violence perpetuated against women and children.
In 2012, her leadership shone brightly as she steered the Equality and Human Rights Commission Inquiry in Scotland, casting a spotlight on the dark shadows of human trafficking. And when Afghanistan's fate hung in the balance, with the Taliban's ascendancy in 2021, Baroness Kennedy emerged as a beacon of hope, orchestrating the evacuation of 102 courageous women judges and prosecutors, their lives threatened by death lists. Through her relentless efforts to raise funds, secure safe havens, charter flights, and resettle these women worldwide, she demonstrated the true essence of heroism.
Currently, she stands at the forefront, advising President Zelensky of Ukraine on the dire matters of war crimes and the alleged abduction of Ukrainian children by Russian forces, her resolve unwavering in the face of adversity.
The founders of Time's Up U.K., Heather Rabbatt and the legendary James Bond producer, Barbara Broccoli, hailed Baroness Kennedy's appointment with heartfelt enthusiasm. "Since our inception in 2018, Time's Up U.K. has been steadfast in its mission to drive tangible change within the industry, addressing bullying, harassment, and abuse head-on," they said. "The concept of establishing a new standards authority, nurtured by Time's Up U.K. and nurtured further by the creative industries roundtable and numerous partners over the years, has reached a pivotal moment. We are overjoyed to announce Baroness Helena Kennedy as our inaugural chair, poised to launch CIISA this year with unparalleled vision and passion."
The CIISA research, a revealing mirror to the industry's pulse, underscores a sobering reality: 53% of respondents confess a lack of confidence in voicing their concerns, with 75% fearing a detrimental impact on their careers and 67% believing their grievances will fall on deaf ears. Yet, amidst this disheartening landscape, an overwhelming 91% of respondents stand united in their support for CIISA's creation, a testament to the urgent need for change and the indomitable spirit of those striving for a fairer, more just future.
