Ethics + Approach

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• Consent: A signed release agreement is mandatory from each participant to be included in Sisterhood (”The film”) or any of its promotions (PR images, website, social media, etc). A release agreement is required under all conditions: under fast-paced conditions, we may begin filming without signed releases; however, immediately following filming we will secure consent or the footage will not be used. We believe that all film participants should fully understand what they are signing, thus we take the time necessary to gain their trust and consent. If they do not consent, we will not film them or use any filmed material captured prior to consent. We make every effort to overcome language barriers by including a translator as part of our international crew.

  • Our team members and associates will request verbal consent to enter personal space, physically touch, or likewise engage with film subjects (for example, when microphoning someone for an interview).

  • Informed consent includes consideration of impact vs. intention: by filming certain people or stories, do we inhibit their ability to keep doing their work in the world safely and effectively? For example, some women land defenders may be endangered by sharing their names and/or likeness on screen. This will be part of our discussions.

  • Revoking consent: Participants may revoke or restrict signed consent up to the date of the film’s public release. To do so, please put in writing that you no longer wish to be included in this film, or the specific restrictions for usage of your video, audio, and/or image. Minors and their parents or guardians may also revoke or restrict consent.

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• Intersectionality: We acknowledge that there are systems of inequality in our culture and throughout the world based on gender identity, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability, class, level of education, and other forms of discrimination that are interconnected. Intersectionality is a vital, unique, and inspirational aspect of our film. We will be open minded and considerate of each woman’s lived experiences as we gather our stories.

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• Inclusivity: The Sisterhood movie is inclusive of cis-gender women and girls, transgender women and girls, nonbinary individuals, and others across the gender spectrum who are forming powerful sisterhoods and working toward collective change. We aim to encourage safer and braver spaces where women can talk openly about gender, race, class etc. as we recognize that these identities (along with others) have affected women’s material conditions throughout history into the Present.

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• Cultural Respect: We seek to learn respectful ways of conducting ourselves personally and professionally in each country in which we film. We will engage in honorific practices; this may include culturally appropriate forms of dress, mannerisms and etiquette, sharing and honoring people’s pronouns, as well as correcting each other as necessary, to name a few. When communicating with film subjects, we listen to their stories and experiences without being critical or judgmental. We ask questions and take a genuine interest in what it means to be a part of that particular culture, outside of a western viewpoint.

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• Decolonization: We strive to decolonize ourselves and our filming practices by intently listening to the voices of Indigenous knowledge keepers (see active listening, below). We recognize and uplift Indigenous leadership and traditional ways of knowing. 

  • Reciprocity: We seek to avoid extractive relationships, wherein benefits are one-sided. We continually search for ways to be in reciprocity and right relationship with each other, our film subjects and stories, the Earth, and all beings. We center sustainability in our decision-making processes.

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• Active Listening: We commit to listening with our full attention and respect. We believe that active listening goes beyond simply hearing the words that the other person speaks, but also seeks to understand the meaning and intent behind them. If we do not understand we will ask clarifying questions, or seek confirmation by repeating what we feel the other person has said.

 

• Integrity: We strive to model truth and transparency. We are integrous with our words and actions. We keep our promises and lean into the power of vulnerability.

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• Mindfulness: We listen to our intuition. We deeply consider both intention and impact. We utilize discernment, and seek consent when our actions will impact others. We are mindful of our growing edges – personally and as a group – and offer gratitude when people take the time to call us into greater understanding.

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• Curiosity: In conflict, we strive to lead with curiosity and understanding. We are open to new ways of knowing and being. We agree to hold each other accountable, erring on the side of kindness and compassion. When we mess up, we apologize, and then “know better, do better” (to quote the poet Maya Angelou).

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• Flexibility: We expect complications, reframe them as opportunities, and adjust accordingly. We do not let complications turn into roadblocks.

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• Generosity: We share generously. We weave the magic of abundance into all that we do, sharing the spirit of generosity with all whom we encounter. Healthy boundaries support and empower generosity; we respect and reinforce boundaries (ours and those of others) as a daily practice.

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• Hope: We aim to elevate all women, and all people, through sharing these powerful, inspiring stories. Together, we can save our world.