On October 13, a reception was held to honor the 55th anniversary of the Black Stuntmen and Women’s Association (BSA).
During this reception, Congresswoman and mayoral candidate Karen Bass, as well other dignitaries, recognized surviving BSA founders and associated members (retired and active) for their fight for civil rights and job opportunities in the Hollywood film and TV industry.
The presentation was hosted by Community Build, a nonprofit headquartered in Leimert Park, and catered by Chef Marilyn.
“The Black Stuntmen and Women’s Association was the first Black Stunt group in the film and television industry to open the doors for all minorities to work in front and behind the camera in the entertainment field,” explained William Upton, VP and Communications Director for the BSA.
Established in 1967, the BSA was created to fill a void. Beginning after famous Black actor, Eddie Smith, complained about a “paint down” stuntman being used to perform stunts for Eddie “Rochester” Anderson in the 1963 slap sick comedy, “It’s a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World.” “Paint down” was the customary use of White stuntmen painted darker to portray Black actors and other people of color in films.
According to BSA president, founder and historian Alex Brown, BSA faced opposition and open hostility from White stunt groups that felt insulted that their financial base was being diminished. However, with the support from the NAACP, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, and EEOC Principal Litigator Margaret Kreeger, the BSA filed and won 32 lawsuits in their fight for job opportunities in the film and TV industry.
This celebration recognized the contributions BSA members made in breaking the color barrier, opening doors for positions behind the camera and within television industry that changed the face of Hollywood. Their fight only continues, as they try to create more opportunities for Black people and other people of color within this industry.
For more information on the BSA visit their website: www.blackstuntmensassociation.com.
