Michelle Sugihara, Executive Director of CAPE, shares how the Coalition of Asian Pacific’s in Entertainment is fostering collaboration among diverse organizations, creating a supportive network within the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities, coalition-building, and amplifying voices and driving systemic change on stage and in front of and behind the camera.

Read more about Michelle here.

Takeaways

• CAPE has been advocating for Asian Pacific Islander representation since 1991.
• Representation begins on the page, which is why CAPE focuses on writers.
• The entertainment industry is cyclical, with shifts in opportunities for diverse voices.
• Coalition building is essential for amplifying underrepresented stories.
• The conversation around representation is becoming more nuanced and intersectional.
• Failure is a necessary part of creativity and risk-taking.
• CAPE is a resource for both high-level executives and entry-level professionals.
• Community is crucial for marginalized artists to uplift each other.
• The industry is currently facing contraction, affecting opportunities for diverse voices.
• Young artists should not compromise their identity and should build their networks.
• The journey of an actor requires persistence and adaptability.
• Community support is vital for artists to flourish.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to CAPE and Michelle Sugihara

02:15 CAPE's Mission and Programs

04:50 Impact of Representation in Media

08:55 Coalition Building and Community Engagement

12:40 Future Challenges and Opportunities for CAPE

15:44 Navigating Industry Changes and Representation

19:54 Advice for Young Artists and Marginalized Voices

22:12 Closing Thoughts and Future Aspirations

Connect with Michelle on Instagram

Connect with CAPE on Instagram

Check out CAPE on their website

Connect with Caroline on Instagram

Connect with Grant on Instagram

Connect with In The Podlight on the Website

The Team:

Caroline Liem – Producer & Host

Grant Kretchick – Producer & Host

Cris Graves - Producer & Editor

David Margolin Lawson - Composer

Emily Yaneth Perez – Administration

In the Podlight is produced in collaboration with Pace University – Sands

• The thoughts, opinions, and views expressed by the guests, hosts, and producers of this podcasts do not necessarily reflect those of Pace University.