Keynote: Dr. Stacy L. Smith

Dr. Stacy L. Smith, the trailblazing mind behind the Inclusion Rider, is revolutionizing Hollywood by turning research into real-world change for diversity and equity in media.

As an Associate Professor at the USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism, Dr. Smith is also the founder of the Annenberg Inclusion Initiative (AII), the leading global think tank studying inequality across the entertainment industry. Her groundbreaking research examines gender, race, LGBTQ+ identities, disabilities, mental health, and their representation across film, television, digital platforms, and the music business. This work includes economic analyses that explore the relationship between inclusion and financial performance.

One of Dr. Smith’s most significant contributions is the creation of the “Inclusion Rider,” a contractual provision designed to promote diversity in media production. Her work has not only illuminated the stark disparities within the industry but also driven tangible change, earning her recognition as one of The Hollywood Reporter’s “50 Agents of Change.” She has also created initiatives like the 4% challenge and collaborated with Brie Larson to diversify film criticism.

Over the course of her career, Dr. Smith has authored over 100 book chapters, articles, and reports, including her involvement in “The Inclusion List,” which ranks the most inclusive films, companies, and producers. Her efforts extend beyond entertainment, as she has served on the Recording Academy Task Force on Diversity and Inclusion and is a founding board member of She Is The Music. In 2023, she launched the Proof of Concept Accelerator program for filmmakers with Cate Blanchett and Coco Francini.

Her relentless advocacy for inclusion has earned her recognition from major media outlets like The New York Times and CBS This Morning. She remains a sought-after speaker at venues such as the United Nations, the White House, and international film festivals.

We’re thrilled to have Dr. Stacy L. Smith speak at Sonic Days, where her insights on creating more equitable environments in both academia and media will be invaluable.