Oscars So White | Community Health

The 'Oscars So White' controversy, which began in 2015, refers to the lack of diversity among nominees for the Academy Awards, with a particular focus on the underrepresentation of people of color. This issue sparked widespread criticism and calls for reform, with many arguing that the Academy's voting membership was too old, too white, and too male. According to a 2016 study by the Los Angeles Times, the Academy's membership was 91% white and 76% male, with an average age of 63. In response to the backlash, the Academy announced plans to increase diversity among its membership, with a goal of doubling the number of women and minority members by 2020. Despite these efforts, the controversy persists, with the 2020 Oscars facing criticism for a lack of diversity among nominees, including no female directors and only one person of color among the 20 acting nominees. The debate surrounding 'Oscars So White' has sparked a broader conversation about representation and inclusion in the film industry, with many calling for greater diversity behind the camera as well as in front of it. As of 2020, the Academy has made some progress in increasing diversity, but the issue remains a contentious one, with many arguing that more needs to be done to address the systemic inequalities that have led to the underrepresentation of people of color in the film industry.