Diversity at the Oscars

By Kiki Whartenby 

After last year's scandal about the undeniable lack of diversity at the Oscars, this year's nominees seem to be more diverse. 

     The anticipation for this year’s Oscars is less about what people are going to wear and all about diversity. In previous years, the scope of people of color who have been nominated has been limited. For the last two years there were absolutely no nominees of color in any category, making the increase in diversity among nominees both necessary and incredible. Actors and actresses including Ruth Negga, Ava DuVernay, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Viola Davis, and Denzel Washington reflect the progression of the film industry in its support of minority actors. Lin-Manuel Miranda was nominated for the new Disney movie, Moana; Ruth Negga was nominated for best actress in the movie, Loving; Ava DuVernay was nominated in the category of filmmaking; Viola Davis was nominated for best performance by an actress in a supporting role for Fences; Denzel Washington was nominated for actor in a leading role for his portrayal of Troy in Fences. Coined with the hashtag #oscarslesswhite, this progression is being celebrated by fans across the nation.
​      Although there is an increase in representation among black actors, the Oscars are still under scrutiny for their lack of Asian and Hispanic actors. In order for diversity to be truly achieved, there must be representation among all communities of people, not simply black and white. Hopefully, this step toward progression will promote an increase in diversity each year in the media.