Just when you think that in 2018 we have reached the height of inclusion and diversity in Hollywood, the Emmy’s reminded us that although we have come a far way, we do still have a way to go. Sandra Oh made history as the first woman of Asian descent to be nominated for Best Actress in a Drama or Comedy. That’s right, it’s 2018 and we are still having firsts for people of color. This isn’t anything new, though.
If you remember a few years ago, the Oscars had everyone in an uproar because of the lack of diversity when it came to nominees for best actor, supporting actor and so on. This brought out celebrities like Jada Pinkett Smith who in voicing their irritation decided to boycott the Oscars all together. The difference between now and then though is that while lack of diversity at the Oscars was noticeable and did indeed put a damper on the festivities as a whole, Sandra Oh’s achievement at being nominated was more so bittersweet. Although she didn’t win, it was great and important to be able to see her bring her parents along with her; her mother even arrived in a traditional Korean style dress.
The Emmy’s have been around for 70 years, and if there is one thing that we see that is a trend throughout this country, it’s that it’s very easy for the our society to become set in their ways. I personally can remember a lot of the times I have watched awards shows and seen critics choose the safe or crowd pleasing choice instead of the one that a lot of people feel deserved to win. It’s not even about whether or not she gave the best performance in this case, but more about the fact that there have been many POC like her who have gone without even being nominated to have their talent recognized.
One of the most frustrating aspects of the lack of diversity when it comes to awards nominations is the fact that there have been so many people of color that have put on amazing performances. Now more than ever, we have seen a resurgence of POC in leading roles in television and movies. With movies like “Blank Panther”, and “Crazy Rich Asians,” both being huge box office successes, it’s not as if there is a lack of talented POC actors in Hollywood, contrary to popular belief. And even on television with sitcoms like “Blackish” and “Fresh Off The Boat”, it’s been proven time and time again that if there is one thing that pulls in ratings, it’s diversity.
Among the positive outcomes of Sandra’s nomination that we all need to acknowledge is the fact that it has continued a conversation that was stared years ago – the need for representation and diversity.