Don’t Tell Me How To Feel About The Oscars!

The Oscars is the beacon of success, tangibly manifested in a golden metal man. It’s every actor’s dream to be awarded the prestigious golden man, even being nominated is a notable achievement. However, this year actors and directors are refusing to take part in Academy Awards; as it is being branded as institutionally racist for not recognising black talent.

Black Stars like Jada Pinkett Smith and legendary director Spike Lee have publicly expressed their disappointment in the lack of diversity in the Oscar’s nominees. Additionally, George Clooney, Mark Ruffalo and Viola Davis have backed the calls for diversity at the Oscars.

An interesting aspect of controversy lies within the failure to recognise the link between the Oscars and institutional racism. The concept of institutional racism is perceived as a foreign, outdated concept. The truth is that it’s an issue that’s revelant in society today. As it has deep roots in society for instance, within the educational system. It’s so common, that it’s embedded in the mind of every ethnic minority. Like applying for a job and knowing that your unpronounceable name says more about you then you qualifications. So… is it really a suprise that the Oscars is institutionally racist?

Charolotte Rambing says in an interview with the Guardian that the diversity row is “ racist to white people”. The actress nominated for the award said: “ black actors may not have been good enough to make the list of Oscar nominees.”

I debate the link between the Oscars and instituitional racism with my friend, over tea. “You’re overracting, it’s just the Oscar’s. No one really cares” my friend rolls her eyes at me.

But it’s not about the Oscars it’s more than that. It’s about society on a whole. Rambling view of the Oscars illustrates the people need to be educated about what really goes on within society; as she completely ignores the idea that race is an issue. Race is a messy topic that can’t be sweeped under the rug.

In an ideal world, race shouldn’t be an issue but it is. More needs to be done in society to promote awareness on issues that effect particular groups. In relation to Oscar’s talented invididuals shouldn’t be discouraged; as outstanding talent can’t be ignored.