The Documentary Organization of Canada has announced that Julian Carrington will be its new executive director. Carrington steps into the role following Sarah Spring’s departure in March. DOC shared the news today via a release.
Carrington has spent several years in different facets of the Toronto arts scene. Most recently, he served as international programmer for Hot Docs after filling multiple roles on the Industry side. He also spear-headed the popular For Viola series at Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema, which brought films by racialized artists and stories with BIPOC perspectives to the theatre for special screenings. The series included a recent sell-out for The Encampments and has also showcased films such as No Other Land, We Will Be Brave, and Patty vs. Patty, often providing a home to docs that generally don’t get time on Toronto screens. Prior to Hot Docs, Carrington served as a long-time programmer at Planet in Focus Environmental Film Festival.
He also recently served as the managing director of the Racial Equity Media Collective, an advocacy group for fair representation in Canadian media. Last summer, Carrington played a pivotal role in bringing to light a story about Islamophobia and anti-Islamophobia at CBC. He’s also close to DOC, having worked with its Festival Concierge Service for several years.
“We are thrilled Julian Carrington has assumed the leadership of the Documentary Organization of Canada,” said Min Sook Lee, Chair of DOC National Board, in a statement. “Julian’s in-depth knowledge of our community, legal training, deep relationships with creators and sector partners alongside his groundbreaking programming accomplishments will bring a unique blend of creative advocacy, policy expertise and industry knowledge to this organization. These are critical times for documentary makers, and Julian understands the challenges and opportunities that lie before us.”
“Since first joining DOC a decade ago as Festival Concierge Manager, I have spent the most rewarding years of my career in the documentary community—working to foster talent, provide access to opportunity, and champion bold, resonant stories,” added Carrington. “I have deep admiration for the values-led work that defines our field, and the courage it takes to speak truth to power. At this turning point—politically, economically, and creatively—I am proud to return to the organization. I look forward to listening to, and learning from, documentary creators across Canada, and to building an organization that truly reflects and supports the wonderful diversity of our community.”
Carrington’s mandate is to continue DOC’s advocacy role as a voice for documentary filmmakers. He officially begins the role June 9. Most recently, Lee testified on DOC’s behalf at the CRTC hearings on Canadian Content and Programs of National Interest.
DOC currently serves over 1500 members and greatly increased its numbers in recent years by offering complimentary memberships to BIPOC creatives in the documentary space. POV was founded by DOC but has operated independently since 2010.
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