The lack of inclusivity in the film industry, namely in Hollywood, has become a real focus of the awards ceremonies over the last few years. And last night was no different.
This year, in fact, singer Janelle Monáe kicked off the 2020 Oscars by performing a song which included the words "Oscars is so white".
Take a look at the moment Janelle Monae sang "Oscars is so white" in her opening performance at the 2020 Oscars:The Make Me Feel singer, was joined on stage by Billy Porter and dancers who were dressed as characters from films overlooked by the Academy, including Queen & Slim, Us, and Dolemite Is My Name.
Janelle had no qualms about calling out the diversity issue in the song, and stunned the audience as she belted out: "It’s time to come alive because the Oscars is so white."
Joaquin Phoenix admits he's 'part of the problem' of systematic racism during his acceptance speech at the BAFTAs:
Addressing the stars in the audience, Janelle then went on to say: "We are celebrating all the women who directed phenomenal films. I’m so proud to stand here as a black, queer artist, to tell the story. Happy Black History month."
Needless to say, plenty of viewers at home took to Twitter to praise Janelle for using the opportunity to share such a powerful message:
One person wrote, "Janelle Monáe honoring all the horror movies that didn’t get nominated while singing about how the Oscars are so white. Yes, I’m here for this."
Remember when Ricky Gervais made a dig at the lack of diversity in the Golden Globe nominations for 2020:Another added: "Janelle Monae on stage at the Oscars, surrounded by people dressed as characters from snubbed films: "It's time to come alive because the Oscars is so white!"
A third wrote: "Janelle Monae opening with an all-black cast representing characters from Oscar-nominated movies was just what I needed. Happy Black History Month!"
