The People
Power of a Speech
Chris Rock’s speech was heard by 34 million people. He was able to broadcast the idea that the Oscars are racist, to a wide range of viewers. Rock said : "Is Hollywood racist? You damn right Hollywood's racist." He added, "Hollywood is sorority racist: We like you Rhonda, but you're not a Kappa.” By speaking his mind and using humor, he ensured that millions of people were made aware of how Hollywood is racist.
Chris Rock gave African Americans' voice an oultet so that their messages and goals could be understood and heard! Their goal of wanting the same rights as white people was heard by over 34 million people in one night thanks to Rock. Rock referenced Black Lives Matter by stating “it's just going to be black people who were shot by the cops on the way to the movies,” He enabled this movement to enter millions of homes so that its message never dies. He allowed it be relevant through his support. It is difficult to advocate one's views to 34 million people all at once, but celebrities have the power . As a result they can change the system as illustrated by the Academy vowing to change its membership rules to boost diversity among voters.
Beyonce's SuperBowl Performance
Describe your image.
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In the past, Beyonce and J-Z were criticized for not speaking out about Black Lives Matter.
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Beyoncé has a huge fan base and as DeRay Mckesson points out, she has political connections. She is capable of getting her message across to millions of people (Thompson 2015). She accomplished this at the Super bowl 2016.
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Backlash: Many police officers believed her performance advocated anti-police views and are trying to boycott working for her
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The Dream Defenders, have come together to support Beyoncé and Black Lives matters by dancing and rallying for justice.
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Beyoncé has been said to have caused a major uproar due to her performance in giving Black Lives Matter a big voice and an outlet.
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This demonstrates just how much voice celebrities have and the power they possess to get a movement, and an idea, out to the world.
DeRay Mckesson(leader of Black Lives Matter Movement) is thrilled with the celebrity support. He declares that:
"Jesse Williams epitomizes the amplified message. Because of his influence, he’s able to take the message of the movement — equity and police violence — to spaces that might not otherwise get it. With the resource piece, you get people who work primarily behind the scenes, whether it’s time, money or advice. That's what is said about people like Beyoncé and Jay Z. (There are) many people who can get into different rooms. They are not on the streets, but they can just call the governor and walk into (a statehouse). That’s huge. Celebrities who have privilege can get into rooms and can link people who can mentor in ways that are important (ibid)."
Why Does It Matter?
"Celebrity involvement in development, rewards personalities instead of policies. If Celebrities do not provide the public with accurate information, the system of governance is short-circuited (West)."
Celebrities must be careful of the potential backlash they might face in speaking out. Scarlett Johansson lost her role as an Oxfam ambassador because of her loyalty to Israel (Daily Mail Reporter 2014). Harry Belafonte refused roles in To Sir, With Love and Lilies of the Field, because he did not like how the films portrayed African Americans. Sidney Poitier took on the roles and won an Academy Award for Lillies of the Field (Thompson 2015). Beyoncé is getting boycotted by different police forces.