Censorship and discrimination against artists with strong political views: a personal story and an industry-wide problem
On threads again I read of photographers who take sides with censorship
As a published photographer and journalist, I have experienced firsthand the negative consequences of expressing strong political views in the industry. A few years ago, I was removed from a brand ambassador program due to my political beliefs. While the brand claimed that my removal was due to a company policy of not associating with individuals who express political opinions, I was aware that an executive at the same company had no qualms about sharing her own political views online, even using harsh language against institutions. This blatant double standard was deeply frustrating and disheartening.
Although my lawyer advised me that I had a strong case for a discrimination lawsuit, I ultimately decided not to pursue legal action. I was not interested in getting involved in a protracted legal battle with the company, and I was also concerned about the potential negative impact on my career. However, this experience has left me with a lingering sense of injustice, and I am troubled by the fact that there are photographers and artists who condone censorship and discrimination, claiming that "companies don't want people with strong political opinions."
This attitude is not only unfair to individual artists, but it is also harmful to society as a whole. It stifles free speech and creativity, and it prevents us from having open and honest conversations about important issues. I believe that artists should have the freedom to express their political views without fear of reprisal, and that companies should be held accountable for discriminatory practices.
Here are some specific points that you can add to your essay:
The importance of free speech and artistic expression: Freedom of speech is a fundamental human right that is essential for a healthy democracy. Artists play a vital role in society by challenging the status quo, raising awareness about important issues, and inspiring others to think critically. When artists are silenced or censored, we all lose. Art, the good art, includes social commentary. And in my case we talk also about a journalist so I have even more right to express my ideas in personal blogs.
The hypocrisy of companies that claim to be neutral while discriminating against artists: Many companies claim to be politically neutral, but their actions often tell a different story. When they fire or refuse to hire artists because of their political views, they are sending a clear message that they do not value free speech or diversity. It is just hypocrisy and desire to appear good, when their behavious is pretty far to be good.
The chilling effect of censorship on creativity: When artists are afraid to express their true beliefs, it can have a devastating impact on their creativity. They may feel pressured to self-censor their work, or they may avoid creating art that deals with controversial topics altogether. This is a loss for all of us, as we are deprived of art that has the potential to challenge us, inspire us, and make us think differently about the world.
I hope that by sharing my story, I can raise awareness of this problem and encourage others to speak out against censorship and discrimination in the arts. Together, we can create a more inclusive and creative industry where artists are free to express themselves without fear.
If you are victim or you were victim of censorship and discrimination because of your ideas and views of the world, you are not alone, and you are invited to share your experience.
You can’t claim to be an artist, photographer, journalist and taking side with the censors and the discriminators.
