While the Academy (and in fact the entire film industry as a whole) has been historically dominated by white males, they have been working over the years on trying to change that and have announced the next phase of their inclusion and equality initiatives.
In 2015, the Academy created a new initiative in response to criticisms raised using the hashtag #OscarsSoWhite. Dubbed A2020, the successful effort doubled the number of women and people of colour in the group's membership and was achieved by the goal year of 2020.
Among the many new goals and changes, the Academy will work with the Producers Guild of America to create new representation and inclusion standards for Oscar eligibility. Additionally, while the 93rd Oscars won't be affected but starting the following year, the best picture category will be permanently set to include 10 nominees with the goal of including a more diverse and representative array of films. Currently, nominations have been anywhere between 5 to 10 films.
“While the Academy has made strides, we know there is much more work to be done in order to ensure equitable opportunities across the board," said Academy CEO Dawn Hudson. "The need to address this issue is urgent. To that end, we will amend — and continue to examine — our rules and procedures to ensure that all voices are heard and celebrated.”
Featured image courtesy of LA Times via latimes.com
