Oscars 2016 Coverage
Leading up to this year’s Academy Awards the chatter was all about #OscarsSoWhite. After the nominations were announced in January, many felt that many deserving movies, cast, and crew, were left out. The immediate #OscarsSoWhite reaction was trending soon after the nominees were announced.
To put it in perspective: in 2015 and 2016, every acting category nominee was white. That’s 40 nominees. All white.
Inclusion, or lack thereof, was a huge theme of the night. There are few things that make me more excited than artists, wearing designer clothes, and using their privileged air time for a marginalized cause.
Jumpy claps to Lady Gaga, in a Brandon Maxwell sculptural pantsuit, for her compelling, heartfelt performance that shined a light and provided a voice for sexual assault victims. Believe them.
Wah hoo to Sam Smith, in a Dunhill tuxedo and slick waistcoat, for dedicating his win to all LGBT persons and community. His efforts for equality are hopeful and important.
Shout out to even Leonardo Dicaprio, in Giorgio Armani, for highlighting the importance of climate change and how everyday people can do their part. His message was simple: don’t support people and businesses that are polluting the planet.
And of course, yay Chris Rock, in a white tuxedo jacket (ironically?), for laying into the Academy for the lack of opportunities for visible minorities. He didn’t just do it in the opening remarks; he kept drilling all the way through the broadcast. He was highlighting how representation and inclusion at all levels is key to the modern world so many people are fighting for.
Curious to know how you can ensure you are inclusive? Spend your money, click links, and like with intention. Or listen to the practical tips from April Reign, the creator of the #OscarsSoWhite movement:
“I would encourage everybody to be more mindful of the movies on which they spend their hard earned money. If the cast does not look like them, does not represent their stories, perhaps choose not to see their films and instead seek out stories that tell the diversity and the beauty and nuance of all people.”
I urge looking good is only half of it. Do some good, too. And if you're really going for it, wear clothing, formal or other, that you know is made from someone good.
