By: Ashton Newton Entertainment Editor
Celebrity activism has always been a big deal in the world of entertainment. Whether celebrities speak out by taking to social media or writing targeted speeches for award shows, the wide audiences that popular celebrities reach make for an opportunity for their voices to make a large impact. No matter the issue, or whether I’m for or against it, celebrities sparking up discussions is healthy for society and gets people thinking.
Celebrities speaking out about the election, both for and against President Trump, has been big in the news lately, but celebrity activism is far from a new thing. 
One of the most notable examples was during the 1973 Oscars, when Marlon Brando refused to attend the ceremony or accept his award for best actor in “The Godfather” to protest the treatment of Native Americans by the film industry and at Wounded Knee. Instead, an Apache trade member named Sacheen Littlefeather was sent to announce that he couldn’t accept the award.
Leonardo DiCaprio used his award platforms for “The Revenant” to discuss issues as well. During his speech for best actor at The Golden Globes, DiCaprio advocated for the Native Americans who live in the areas where the film was made.
“I want to share this award with all the First Nations peoples represented in this film and all the indigenous communities around the world. It is time we recognized your history and that we protect your indigenous lands from corporate interests,” said DiCaprio.
Award speeches are moments where fellow celebrities, the media and massive audiences of people all have eyes on someone, and I think bringing up a social cause that most people wouldn’t think of is a great thing to do while everyone is listening.
Afterwards, people take to social media voicing their opinions on what was said. While some individuals are mean and hurtful, a lot of people honestly voice their opinions on either side of the issue. The sharing of opinions, the small dinner table debates, it’s what creates a healthy, thoughtful and intelligent society.
Numerous celebrities took to the streets for the Jan. 21 Women’s March, using their voices to reach wide audiences with information and encouragement; Scarlett Johansson, Lady Gaga and Cher were all present at the Women’s March in Washington DC. Among the celebrities present, there was also actor and comedian Nick Offerman, who took to Twitter voicing his support and sharing photos of the march.
Whether it’s marching for causes, speaking out on Twitter or dedicating an award speech to a cause, celebrity activism provokes thinking and is positive for society.
Contact the author at anewton15@wou.edu
