Joaquin Phoenix made a strong speech about the lack of multi-racial representation at mainstream awards, while accepting his ‘Best Actor’ trophy at the 2020 BAFTA.
The ‘Joker’ actor, who has virtually swept every award that there is, for his much-talked-about performance in the DC-franchise-led drama, chose the platform to express his concern of a form of systematic racism – that leads to such less representation of non-white actors and performers at most of the award ceremonies.
“I think that we send a very clear message to people of color that you’re not welcome here.” – he stated.
He further added:
“But I have to say I also feel conflicted because so many of my fellow actors that are deserving don’t have that same privilege. I think that we send a very clear message to people of color that you’re not welcome here.”
“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 work on are inclusive.”
Speaking on taking a collective stand to curb the issue, he concluded the speech saying:
“I think that we have to really do the hard work to truly understand systemic racism…. [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.”
Watch his speech below: