At the recent Academy Awards, Frances MacDonald delivered a powerful acceptance speech that has captivated audiences and reignited discussions on diversity in the film industry. Winning the Best Actress award for her role in Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri, MacDonald portrayed a determined mother, Mildred Hayes, who fights relentlessly to bring attention to her daughter’s unsolved murder. While her performance was remarkable, it was her words during the ceremony that truly resonated.
Beginning her speech with humor, MacDonald declared, “If I fall over, pick me up because I’ve got some things to say,” before expressing her gratitude to those who supported her. She then made an impactful request for all female nominees to rise, stating, “If I may be so honored, I would like all female nominees in every category to stand with me tonight.” Her encouragement for even the legendary actress, Meryl Streep, to join her underscored the significance of unity among women in the industry.
As the women stood, MacDonald seized the moment to emphasize the need for diversity in storytelling and representation. “Look around, ladies and gentlemen,” she urged. “We all have stories to tell and projects we need financed. Don’t talk to us about it at parties tonight. Invite us into your office in a couple of days, or you can come to ours, whichever suits you best, and we’ll share our visions.” The applause that followed was a testament to the audience’s support of her call to action.
Concluding her address, MacDonald succinctly stated, “I have two words to leave with you tonight: inclusion rider.” This phrase refers to a contractual clause that can ensure greater racial and gender diversity within film casts and crews. After the ceremony, she elaborated on this concept, revealing that she had only learned about the inclusion rider recently. “It allows you to demand at least 50% diversity, not just in casting but also in crew,” she explained, emphasizing the need for a shift in industry norms. “We’re not going back. This isn’t about trends; it’s about lasting change.”
MacDonald’s speech resonated strongly within the context of the #MeToo and #TimesUp movements, reinforcing the importance of striving for equality and representation in all fields. As Hollywood serves as a prominent platform for these issues, it highlights the ongoing need for discussions around inclusivity.
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In summary, Frances MacDonald’s Oscar moment was not just an acceptance speech; it was a clarion call for change, urging the industry to embrace diversity and inclusion. Her words are expected to echo through Hollywood and beyond, as they spotlight the necessity for equitable representation in every aspect of storytelling.