FSC Issues Statement on Racially Charged Language On the Set

LOS ANGELES — The Free Speech Coalition said today that it was “disturbed” to read a recent account by an adult performer who alleged racist and sexist speech on an adult set in June.

“The incidents described have no place in the adult industry, or any industry,” the FSC said. “No worker should be subjected to racist slurs, degradation or verbal abuse on set.

“It’s appalling in 2017 that we would have to issue a call for respect and equal treatment in regards to a performer’s race.”

The FSC said it spoke with the performer about the alleged incidents and is currently working to gather more information.  

“The adult industry is the home to one of the most diverse workforces on the planet," the FSC said. "Our strength comes from the diversity of race, sexuality, gender identity, and body types celebrated. Racism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia cannot and will not be tolerated.”

“We are also in conversation with APAC, the Adult Performer Advocacy Committee, to determine the most effective way to address not only this situation, but incidents of bias and harassment in general,” the FSC said.

APAC, earlier today, issued its own statement reminding directors and producers that “racially motivated hiring practices, pay discrepancies and verbal harassment are illegal and can be tried in a court of law.”

“Minorities across the workforce are protected by several laws- including Title VII, the Civil Rights Act of 1866, and state and federal workplace harassment laws. Racial harassment in the workplace is a criminal offense,” APAC said. “In this regard, production companies are subject to the same laws as other industries and ignore these laws to their own detriment.

“Directors, photographers, producers, and all production assistants are expected to uphold the same level of professionalism mirrored in the Performer Code of Conduct. The Model Bill of Rights provides all performers a base standard of boundary guidelines for maintaining a safe and comfortable work experience on set.”

APAC said it stands behind performers who face illegal or unethical treatment.

“No performer deserves to face intimidation in the workplace, racial or otherwise. Racism and other aggressive misconduct reflect negatively on the community altogether,” APAC said. “Directors should be mindful in a small populace such as the adult film community, safety and comfort are top priorities.”