The BAFTAs were this weekend. And while there is plenty to talk about in regards to the actual winners and what that might mean for the Oscars, the biggest story might have actually been about Joaquin Phoenix. As the actor collected yet another Best Actor trophy for his role in “Joker,” Phoenix took the time during his latest acceptance speech to talk about an issue that has plagued the awards circuit in recent years, and especially at the BAFTAs — diversity.
Phoenix has never been one to be quiet about politics and social issues in public, and even at the Golden Globes, he took his acceptance speech as the time to bring up certain issues near and dear to him. But at the BAFTAs, he took that to a whole different level, not only calling out systemic racism but also the industry and awards shows that he feels should step up to help.
“I feel very honored and privileged to be here tonight,” said Phoenix. “The BAFTAs have already been very supportive of my career and I’m deeply appreciative. But I have to say that I also feel conflicted because so many of my fellow actors that are deserving don’t have that same privilege.”
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He continued, “I think that we send a very clear message to people of color that you’re not welcome here. I think that’s the message that we’re sending to people that have contributed so much to our medium and our industry and in ways that we benefit from. I don’t think anybody wants a handout or preferential treatment – although that’s what we give ourselves every year. People just want to be acknowledged, appreciated and respected for their work. This is not a self-righteous condemnation because I’m ashamed to say that I’m part of the problem. I have not done everything in my power to ensure that the sets I was on are inclusive.”
“But I think it’s more than just having sets that are multi-cultural,” Phoenix added. “We have to do really the hard work to truly understand systemic racism. I think it is the obligation of the people that have created and perpetuate and benefit from a system of oppression to be the ones that dismantle it. So that’s on us.”
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With the Oscars around the corner and many expecting Phoenix to land his biggest trophy yet, it’ll be interesting to see if he continues this trend of political speeches or not.
You can watch the speech below:
