Malakhi Simmons was introduced to the world of creation by his parents, both of whom were artists, and their mentor, Director/Historian Carlton Moss (The Negro Soldier). Moss treated Malakhi as if he was another one of his film students, and early on instilled the importance of having diverse representation both in front of and behind the camera.
In 1999, Malakhi became a member of IATSE Local 728, and soon after, had the opportunity to work under John A. Alonzo, A.S.C. (Chinatown, Scarface). Alanzo, like Moss, took Malakhi under his wing, and pushed him to not only explore his role as an artist, but also his responsibility as a person of color in the film industry.
Today, Malakhi is the Vice President of IATSE Local 728 and serves on the International’s DEI Committee. Malakhi also serves as Vice President of the Southern California chapter of the Coalition of Black Trade Unionist (CBTU) and sits on the Industry Advisory Panel for Hollywood CPR. He remains dedicated to advocating for better working conditions for all workers, and for greater diversity, equity, and inclusion in the entertainment industry.
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