For the first time in 30 years, three black actors have been nominated for Academy Awards. And for the first time in Academy Award history, two black men will compete against each other for an Oscar for best actor in a leading role.
In the African-American community, the nominations themselves are an amazing feat at which to marvel. But the idea of one these superb actors actually winning an award has the community buzzing with skepticism.
In his own right, Denzel Washington is a leader in the acting industry and he is no stranger to the Academy Awards. In 1989, he was awarded an Oscar for his supporting role in “Glory.” Thirteen years since his award, he has yet to receive another, although he has surpassed excellence in many leading roles.
Although Halle Berry and Will Smith are household names when it comes to the entertainment industry, this is their first Academy Award nomination.
It is no secret that Hollywood continues to exemplify a huge disregard when it comes to the acknowledgment of black actors and actresses. Many black actors and actresses have made contributions to this industry, butmany of them fail to gain the recognition they deserve.
Not every black actor or actress deserves an Academy Award, but it would not seem right to have this year’s Academy Awards ceremony come and go without at least one of the three actors mentioned above honored.
Don’t take this the wrong way. The implementation of an affirmative-action process for the Academy Awards is not what should be suggested. What is to be assumed is that actors and actresses, regardless of their race, color or creed, will be diligently awarded for their performances and contributions to the film industry.
No one wants to see an Oscar given charitably. But everyone wants to see an Oscar given deservedly.
