A CHAT WITH Maura Marcellino
BY Amani SalahudeenMaura Marcellino is currently studying Integrative Studies, Marketing, and Environmental Sustainability at George Mason University. Maura enjoys listening to music, watching TV and movies, and spending time with friends and family. She is a proud autistic woman working to make the music and entertainment industry a more sustainable, accessible, and inclusive place. She is a strong ally for LGBTQ+ and works in the music industry.
Can you please introduce yourself and tell us what being an lgbtq+ ally is like?
I’m Maura, I’m a proud autistic woman working in the music industry. Being an ally for the LGBTQ+ community is so important to me. It’s a constant learning experience. It is important to always keep an open-mind. Being an ally is a case where actions speak louder than words.
What is it like to work in the music industry?
Music is basically my life. I consume it constantly for enjoyment and work in the industry. I have playlists for different moods I’m in to help cope with things. I dabble in writing lyrics and that has helped me deal with issues.
Working in the music industry has been great, but difficult. It is a very competitive space that can be very unfair. I have had the opportunity to work in different aspects of the industry. Working for an organization that spotlights local art is rewarding because it highlights talent and can help open doors for them. As someone in the sustainability branch, it is fulfilling since it makes me feel like I’m making a difference on the planet.
Can you tell us a bit more about what you do within the music industry and how you got there?
For as long as I can remember, I’ve always wanted to work in entertainment in some way. If I had to pick an instance that really kickstarted sustainability in music, I would say Coldplay and Dave Matthews Band really inspired me. Artists like them have said they want to make touring as sustainable as possible or they won’t do it. I didn’t want to see concerts go away, so I wanted to do more about it.
My main job is a Sustainability Manager for my local venue. I educate, find more sustainable solutions, and sort trash to make sure it ends up in the correct place and keep as much out of the landfill as possible. The music industry has a very large carbon footprint and there are things that can be done. Yes, some things can be out of a venue’s control like transportation, which is why doing as much as possible to offset that is key. We won’t have concerts if we don’t have a livable planet.
What are some common mistakes you’ve noticed that allies make in the beginning?
When someone comes out, a common but inappropriate response is saying things like “I knew it”, “duh”, or “Finally!” Responses like these reinforce stereotypes. You can never really know someone’s identity unless they tell you. Also, do not assume that they are out to everybody. Ask who it is safe to use correct pronouns around. In cases where you can do research yourself, do it. Do not treat someone like a search engine.
MAURA MARCELLINO | COURTESY OF MAURA MARCELLINOWhat advice do you have for anyone who wants to be a stronger ally?
Do not stop at tolerance. You can say you support the LGBTQ+ all you want, but you have to do something about it. Discrimination, bullying, harassment, and harmful policies are all too real. Correcting people when they use someone’s incorrect name and/or pronouns the first time (if it is safe) is important. Calling/emailing representatives, voting in local and national elections, and calling out inappropriate behavior is key. When you sit there doing nothing, you’re not any better than bullies. Uncomfortable discussions need to be held to make a positive difference.
Sharing stories is vital…and not just during Pride Month. When I say stories, I do not just mean someone’s coming out journey or queer journey. It is important to share their art and give them a spot at the table. There are also some instances where I have been in charge of hiring people and hiring LGBTQ+ people is important.
What does pride month mean to you as an ally?
As an ally during Pride Month, it means stepping back and recognizing my privilege as a cishet woman. It also is important to address any bias you may have. Unlearning is a very real thing!
What’s something you’ve learned while being an ally?
Most of my friends are members of the queer community and it has been great to see them grow and be true to themselves. I have learned to ask questions, but make sure I ask the right questions and if I can research it myself then to do that first. I have learned to recognize my privilege. Yes I am disabled and a woman, but I have straight and cis privilege.
Thank you so much for having me! I would like to thank my sister and my friends for taking their time to educate me, call me out, and love me unconditionally.