Gabrielle Garcia/Staff Writer
After abundant controversy and uproar over the Oscar boycott, people worldwide tuned in to see the anticipated Academy Awards. The boycotts, which condemned The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences for lack of diversity, stirred the pot to say the least – opening people’s hearts and minds to many difficult discussions. This years Academy Awards though, seemed to address only one angle of diversity.
Initially, I found Chris Rock’s performance to be engaging, sarcastic and eye-opening. I most definitely had a laugh and achieved a new sense of awareness for issues that have been and continue to be at stake today. Yet, as the show continued, I found Rock’s comedy and commentary to increasingly contradict the issue about diversity.
While the prejudices and vices associated with race are unfortunately very much prevalent in society today, I perceived that the Oscar boycotts were meant to address issues of diversity, not the binaries of black and white.
Punch line after punch line, I began to wonder if Rock’s comedy was addressing and questioning diversity or focusing on the boundaries of race.
I contend that diversity delves beyond the realms of race and color. We must equally address issues across all spectrums. This includes the LGBTQ community and those with disabilities as well. Where are their opportunities and undivided recognitions in the film industry?
The prejudices and ill will associated with race and color need to cease—specifically the lack of compassion and recognition for other human beings. The film industry and The Academy has most definitely taken a fall; However, I believe The Academy has the ability to make significant changes for the better. Diversity is not black nor white and the film industry shouldn’t be either.
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The opinions presented within this page do not represent the views of FIU Student Media Editorial Board. These views are separate from editorials and reflect individual perspectives of contributing writers and/or members of the University community.
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