Cassidy Dimon Appointed as First Executive Director of FWD-Doc: Advocates for Filmmakers with Disabilities
In a significant development for the nonprofit sector, Cassidy Dimon has been named the inaugural executive director of FWD-Doc, an organization dedicated to supporting filmmakers with disabilities. This announcement comes as the organization takes strides in promoting inclusivity within the film industry.
Since its inception in 2020, FWD-Doc has served as a global community for disabled creators and allies, boasting over 1,200 members who are committed to creating a more equitable entertainment landscape. Dimon steps into her role immediately, succeeding interim director Amanda Upson, who will remain involved with the organization as a board member.
Leaders within FWD-Doc, including notable figures like Jim LeBrecht, acclaimed filmmaker and chair of the board, have expressed their enthusiasm about Dimon’s appointment. LeBrecht emphasized that her extensive experience and dedication to promoting accessibility align perfectly with the organization’s mission.
Dimon has previously held the position of director of programs and accessibility at Full Spectrum Features, where she focused on uplifting diverse voices, particularly from women, LGBTQ+, disabled, and BIPOC communities. Her work has been instrumental in initiatives such as the Film Event Accessibility Scorecard, which seeks to establish standards for inclusivity within film events.
In her welcoming statement, Dimon conveyed her excitement about joining FWD-Doc and her anticipation for the organization’s future. “Having collaborated with FWD-Doc since its early days, I have witnessed the transformative impact it has on promoting equity in our industry,” she stated. “I’m eager to work alongside the board to further support our community of members during this critical phase of our growth.”
Acknowledging the contributions of Amanda Upson, LeBrecht highlighted her pivotal role in the organization’s development and the launch of the Accessibility Scorecard, a tool that has raised the bar for accountability within the film industry.
To aid in the transition and further FWD-Doc’s objectives, the recruitment process for the new executive director was handled by the Nonprofit Professionals Advisory Group (NPAG). Financial backing for FWD-Doc comes from various foundations, including the Ford Foundation and the Jonathan Logan Family Foundation, among others.
FWD-Doc’s core mission revolves around promoting stories by, for, and about disabled individuals and advocating for a more inclusive media landscape. As it continues to expand its influence, the organization remains dedicated to nurturing disabled, deaf, and neurodivergent talent while challenging ableism within the entertainment industry.