And the Oscar goes to...

As racial unrest continues to sweep across the United States many are opening their eyes to the blatant racial discrimination that still exists today in places we simply overlooked. Hollywood possess a lure unlike any other cultural phenomenon in the states, and yet so many seem to glaze over the fact that there is incredible discrimination still occurring today in films, as well as recognition for outstanding performances. For the second year in a row the Academy has nominated ONLY WHITE actors and actresses for awards, despite some amazing works that received raving reviews. The only difference? The main actors were black. 

Not only are there issues in the lack of recognition of black film industry employees, but their roles in many films. In my opinion, there has been an increase in the popularity of films with predominantly black actors, however there still tends to be an this Eurocentric emphasis within film plots. Consistently, black actors are stereotyped and put into roles that enhance the negative views of black culture. More likely than not, they are playing a supporting role, a character with a very sarcastic or witty personality, or simply there for more comic relief than a real hero of the story. While black actors often go above and beyond in their roles, they are still at a much bigger disadvantage than their white counterparts. Especially, when it comes to nominations.

So who is this sacred Academy? It supposedly is a panel of the most successful and powerful people in the business, who receive an invitation after showing their influence in the culture of Hollywood. But, it is extremely secretive and prestigious to be named as a part of the Academy. My burning question is, how many minorities are actually represented in the Academy? If I had to take a wild guess, from their patterns of nominations, I think it would be a safe bet that it consists of a predominantly white panel. And I wouldn’t be surprised to discover that the ones with the most power are white old rich men. Typical.

So how do we fix this? How do we combat the racism that exists today right in front of our faces? I think this issue is something that is ingrained deep into the film industry and requires not only conscious effort from the public, but also from people within the industry themselves to realize this atrocious under-appreciation for some of the most incredible performances by actors. And not only giving them the proper and fair attention, but also to start to eliminate and combat stereotypes that are present across our nation today. People look up to the film industry and those in it, therefore, it is time Hollywood realizes its role in shaping American culture and start doing something about solving the racial discrimination in the industry.