Viola Davis’ historical moment at the Emmy Awards was highlighted by a speech that focused on racial disparity in Hollywood. However, everyone didn’t agree with her message.
Shortly after Davis’ powerful speech, “General Hospital” star Nancy Lee Grahn shared her displeasure on Twitter. “I wish I loved #ViolaDavis speech, but I thought she should have let @shondarhimes write it.”
Grahn continued her Twitter rant by adding, “I’m a f—g actress for 40 years. None of us get respect or opportunity we deserve. Emmys not venue 4 racial opportunity. ALL women belittled.”
Grahn’s response to Davis revealed a larger issue when it comes to racial discrimination. Unfortunately, some whites believe that if you ignore racism it will somehow go away. It’s a counterproductive form of thinking that leads to less diversity in Hollywood, the tech industry, media, and other prominent fields that are majority white.
After being blasted by Twitter users, Grahn decided to apologize by tweeting, “My upset is acting awards don’t fix racial injustice. As an actor, I see how irrelevant we are. I never mean to diminsh her accomplishment. I wish I could get her roles. She is a goddess. I want equality for all women, not just actors. I apologize to anyone who I offended.”
But even in her attempt at an apology, Grahn failed to realize that Davis’ speech was given on the perfect platform. She boldly shared her experience with being Black in a country that often fails at diversity. Millions got a chance to hear it. Hopefully, a few will think about Davis’ message and take a long look in the mirror.
