Almost fifty years ago, Sacheen Littlefeather was the first aboriginal woman get on the stage of the Oscars. In a moving speech, the representative of Marlon Brando had announced that the latter refused the statuette.
Apologies from the Oscars, 50 years later
Through this radical gesture in 1873, it was up to the actor speak out against the treatment of Native Americans in Hollywood. Sacheen Littlefeather had therefore suffered whistles, insults and mockery from the public. She later revealed that John Wayne, one of the western’s most prominent figures, had even attempted to physically attack her but was detained by security officers.
On August 15, 2022, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences apologized to the actress and activist, on behalf of the mistreatment and lack of recognition received, as posted on the official website.
“The abuses you suffered as a result of this claim were misplaced and unwarranted. The emotional burden you have experienced and the cost of your career in our industry are irreparable. For too long the courage that you have demonstrated was not recognized. For this, we offer you both of our most sincere apologies and our sincere admiration. “
Towards a more inclusive industry?
In this apology letter written on June 18, 2022, former Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences president David Rubin mentioned commitment to ” a more inclusive sector and respectful “this is “An engine of progress. “ :
“We cannot fulfill the Academy’s mission to ‘inspire the imagination and connect the world through cinema’ without a commitment to facilitate the widest possible representation and inclusion, reflecting our diverse global population. “
In this, the Academy recognized the pioneering role of Sacheen Littlefeather, now 75. Fifty years later, his battle is even more heated than ever. The Academy published this letter as part ofan invitation from Sacheen Littlefeather to “An evening of conversation, healing and celebration” at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles on September 17. The indigenous activist and actress responded with humor, as oscars.org always reports:
“We Indians are very patient people – it’s only been fifty years! We have to keep our sense of humor about it all the time. It’s ours means of survival. It warms my heart to see how much many things have changed since I didn’t accept the Oscar fifty years ago. “
Featured Image Credit: © Creative Commons
Source: Madmoizelle
Lloyd Grunewald is an author at “The Fashion Vibes”. He is a talented writer who focuses on bringing the latest entertainment-related news to his readers. With a deep understanding of the entertainment industry and a passion for writing, Lloyd delivers engaging articles that keep his readers informed and entertained.
