Oscars 2018: From #sowhite to #standup
Change is possible. Just take the 2018 Oscars.
THE 2018 OSCARS offered something of an unbridled authenticity that some argued had been historically lacking in the ceremonies of yesteryear.
Amidst the backdrop of #metoo, #timesup and #neveragain, equality, diversity, inclusion and intersectionality stood before the curtain. And after last night, we’ll surely be adding #standup to the hashtag cast.
Here are a few of my takeaways from the Awards that spoke to moving the needle in equality and inclusion.
- Fundamentally female-forward.
On at least three separate occasions, host Jimmy Kimmel and presenters referred to the community of artists and actors as “women and men,” rather than the customary, “everyone,” or worse, “you guys.” This mindfulness for female-first language sends a subtly strong message that is anything but unintentional. And the various film montages depicting women actors as perspicacious and resolute characters was simply, well, authentic.
2. The Spectrum of gender, acknowledged.
The well-deserved nomination of “A Fantastic Woman” for Best Foreign Film modeled the right idea, and I’d say this is a step (though, not quite a leap) in the right direction to more visibly honor transgender actors and stories.
3. Social justice is ‘IN’.
This year’s Awards acknowledged civil rights activists and “unsung heroes”, appreciating those who “take on issues bigger than themselves.” As someone who has worked in civil rights enforcement— investigating and resolving over 350 cases of discrimination, including sexual misconduct, and developing inclusion learning strategies, I’ve learned from these very champions that diversity and equity is both simply [and complexly], authentic.
If the human condition is indeed the universal language of movies and film, then we can only anticipate the next big inspiration to be these heroes’ stories.
4. Cultural appreciation, not appropriation.
“To all the dreamers out there. We stand with you.” — Kumail Nanjiani and Lupita Nyongo
The Oscars knocked it out of the park on this one. The humble and respectful messages of love, solidarity, and more specifically, appreciation for the immigrant experience, celebrated difference in a way that was simply, authentic.
Celebrating Hispanic heritage through song and speech connected film with the dreamers that inspire and are inspired, encouraging all humans to #standup for what you believe in and most importantly, to deeply understand.
5. Two words: Inclusion Rider
Frances McDormand’s Best Actress acceptance speech ended with what seems to suggest that artists #standup and activate their inner advocate; and seek a diversity rider to their contracts. This could come in the form of an added clause promising good faith efforts to ensure, as an example, gender or racial parity among the cast, crew and associated vendors.
The BIG CTA? Show me the parity!
Whether simply de moda or a soon-to-become wardrobe classic, it’s clear that celebrities are wearing (some, literally) the social impact movement with authenticity and may hopefully #standup for more than just this moment.
