Ava DuVernay Launches Diversity Program

Filmmaker Ava DuVernay launched a diversity program on Monday that will fund internships in the entertainment industry for young people from underserved communities. The Evolve Entertainment Fund will assist 150 interns, with the goal to increase the number to 500 by 2020 and beyond. The program, which kicks off this summer, will distribute grants to entertainment companies and organizations around LA. The first grant recipient will be the Women in Entertainment Mentorship Program, a joint venture between Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Greater Los Angeles and The Hollywood Reporter. DuVernay is joined in this effort by LA Mayor Eric Garcetti. At an event announcing the program on Monday, the Compton native said that she was tired of attending diversity panels and that it was time for action. More here.