Joaquin Phoenix Makes A Crucial Statement On ‘System Of Oppression’ In The Film Industry

Successful actor Joaquin Phoenix has made a crucial statement about the ‘system of oppression’ in the film industry during his BAFTAs 2020 acceptance speech.

Phoenix won the Leading Actor award for his role as the Joker at the award ceremony in London on February 2.

During his speech, Joker actor said that he was happy that he was honored and part of the BAFTA organization. He also continued that he was privileged because he received a lot of support from the organization, but stated that many actors should have the same privilege.

Here’s what Joaquin Phoenix stated:

“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 hand-out or preferential treatment, although that’s what we give ourselves every year. I think people want to be appreciated and respected for their work.”

He continued:

“I have not done everything in my power – not all sets I’ve worked on are inclusive. I think that we really have to do the hard work to truly understand systemic racism. It is the obligation of the people that have created and perpetuated and benefit from a system of oppression to dismantle it, so that’s on us.”

Click here for the source of the statement.