Entertainment Industries Council (EIC)

This entertainment-education initiative is grounded in the belief that the majority of people in the US - and people all over the world - are most receptive to information when it is provided in an easily digestible way. Focusing on health and social issues such as substance abuse and addiction, mental illness, depression, suicide, bipolar disorder, HIV/AIDS, gun violence and cancer, EIC uses the model of education, resources and recognition to enable communication between scientists and the creative community, as well as to facilitate communication from them to the public.

Visitors to the EIC website and to the EICnetwork.tv website can download resources and view videos that provide information and, hopefully, inspiration to the creative community. Through these online platforms, EIC offers educational services and resources, including; First Draft™ (briefings and consultations), PICTURE THIS publications that spotlight specific health issues (e.g., news briefs for creative writers on women and HIV/AIDS), SPOTLIGHT ON (information and depiction suggestions on health issues for the creative community), TEAM Up (resources on mental health for entertainment industry professionals and journalists in English and Spanish), and Generation Next™, which encourages accurate storytelling among students of film and journalism. EIC then publicly recognises productions that accurately communicate these health and social issues through the PRISM Awards and SET Awards.

For example, "This is Laura" encourages young women to embrace the power of education in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Created by then 15-year-old Molly Cinnamon, the 60-second spot bears the message "Don't Let Stereotypes Define You. Instead, Defy Them." Said Cinnamon, "People often make false assumptions about science and computer girls - and it's really difficult, especially in middle and high school, to not let those labels define you. I want STEM girls to realize that they are so much more than a stereotype. Be proud. You have the power to change the world in ways others can't even fathom." The goal is to spur a national conversation that will lead to a shift in attitudes and behaviours toward a more informed society of future innovators.

EIC also works to bring a variety of stakeholders together in support of various health issues. For example, during National Recovery Month, EIC partnered with the National Association for Children of Alcoholics to host the Recovery Planning Partners Luncheon. With an audience consisting of 200 personnel from addiction, mental health, and recovery organisations, the programme was webcasted live over EICtv Network. It featured leaders from the White House, media industries, pharmaceutical industries, and advocacy organisations. The programme included a sneak preview of the 17th Annual PRISM Awards Showcase, aired annually on the FX [TV] network in September to recognise writers, producers, actors, and actresses for their authentic storytelling of mental health and substance use issues. "The industry would be much lesser a place without this organization [EIC and the PRISM Awards] because it really is about raising awareness and I am honored to be associated with it." - Kevin McKidd, Actor, Grey's Anatomy.

Health, Science.