During the countless hours we’ve spent on the internet and social media, we have seen the #OscarsSoWhite hashtag appear over the last couple of weeks. For those who are unfamiliar with this meme, this is in response to the lack of diversity in the major acting categories (Best Actor/Actress, Best Supporting Actor/Actress) for the second year in a row. Granted, the actors and actresses nominated are all deserving of their nominations and do not deserve any ridicule or criticism. That criticism stems from the fantastic performances and skill demonstrated by non-white actors/actresses/filmmakers.
Let’s face it, everyone: lack of diversity has been a major problem with ‘The Academy’ for years and it is demonstrated in the list of winners and nominees that you can easily Google or search for on Wikipedia. The reason that the outrage and disappointment is prevalent now is because 2015 showcased great works from non-white actors and filmmakers (Idris Elba, Will Smith, Michael B. Jordan, Samuel L. Jackson, Benicio Del Toro, Jason Mitchell, Ryan Coogler, Rick Famuyiwa and F. Gary Gray). Filmmakers and actors such as Spike Lee, George Clooney, Mark Ruffalo, Jada Pinkett Smith and Will Smith have decided not to attend the Oscars this year in response to the lack of diversity. Also, prominent actors and entertainers in the black film community have suggested that Chris Rock relinquish hosting duties in protest as well. While I respect their reasoning for asking Chris Rock to boycott hosting the Oscars this year, I disagree with it.
Boycotting an event due to outrage over a social or political issue is an effective strategy to foster change. Yesterday, Academy president Cheryl Boone Issacs announced changes to Academy membership and restructuring to improve diversity. Issacs’ disappointment in the lack of diversity in an organization she presides over galvanized this landmark decision. On the issue of Chris Rock hosting, the Academy Awards is watched by hundreds of millions of people across the world. Chris Rock is a comedian, yes, but he also is a satirist and commentator on social and political issues. The Academy Awards is the perfect platform for Rock to speak on this issue with his acerbic and hard-hitting humor. In my opinion, the best comedy comes from truth and Chris Rock excels in this aspect. I will be watching the awards on February 28th, 2016, still engaged and excited about the potential winners (pulling for Leonardo DiCaprio, Sylvester Stallone, George Miller and Mad Max: Fury Road), but curious to how the industry will foster change in diversity in representation for other races.
That being said, whatever comes out of the Academy membership additions and voting process restructuring, I hope that it won’t become a knee-jerk reaction to a social or political issue that is happening in America. Revered actor Michael Caine held an interview in which he commented on the diversity controversy. Caine was quoted, saying “You can’t vote for an actor because he’s black. You got to give a good performance, and I’m sure there were very good [performances].” Grammy host LL Cool J also weighed in on the debate, sharing that African-American actors should have more of a determined mindset in seeking to improve their craft instead of being outraged by not receiving accolades for their work. I agree with both of the statements given by both actors. I believe that any good work should be acknowledged or rewarded, but it shouldn’t be given to someone just because they are this, that or anything that is related to their social, economic, religious or political standing. Instead of being bitter, I believe that we all should strive to become better at whatever it is we choose to do for a living. In order to create better circumstances for everyone, I am reminded of quote from Mahatma Gandhi: ‘You must be the change you wish to see in the world.’
Related links:
http://www.oscars.org/news/academy-takes-historic-action-increase-diversity
http://www.oscars.org/oscars/ceremonies/2016
http://www.people.com/article/michael-caine-talks-oscar-diversity-controversy
The Musings of an Average Guy 