Is It The Right Place or Time?

Post Date

Mon, 02/20/2017 - 00:00

Categories

Politics

In the spirit of the open discussion that Mitch began last week, I share the following thoughts.

Most people who know me know that I enjoy pop culture as a diversion from the day to day. I read People magazine weekly, I watch the Real Housewives while on the treadmill, and thanks to a certain Gothamite who shall remain nameless I read a certain fashion blog while eating lunch at my desk. So, for someone like me the current season, that being the awards season, i.e. Golden Globes, SAG, and Oscars, is a fun time. I enjoy watching the red carpets, seeing what and who the celebrities are wearing, and hearing them interviewed about the work that is being honored.

This year the awards shows appear to be taking a different turn. Many celebrities who have received awards have decided not to make typical acceptance speeches but, rather, political statements. And, while I might agree-or maybe disagree at times- with the statements they are making, I am not sure that this is the venue in which I want to hear their political views.

I have no issue with celebrities making impassioned speeches at political venues such as rallies or before Congress. In fact, if you google Aston Kustcher’s name you can watch-as I did- a passionate and heartfelt speech he made before a Congressional subcommittee this week about the increasingly growing menace of human trafficking and child prostitution. For me, his was an absolutely powerful and dynamic speech given in the proper venue. Had he given the speech at the SAG awards, for example, I do not know whether I would have had the same receptive reaction.

This blog is not about what the political statements the celebrities are making at awards shows, or whether they have the right to say it. Obviously, in our country, they do. But I just wonder whether their message is best delivered in a more appropriate setting other than at an awards show. Thoughts?

Comments

Fred Klein

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"Strange times indeed"

Corey Bearak

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I strongly support people using their celebrity, their standing to bring attention to issues; I may not always agree with the position but I respect that right. And its courageous because if they speak out too strongly against what matters to people or support stuff I find reprehensible if may impact how I respond to them in the area where they excel. I devoted a chapter of The Public Ought To Know - "Singers raise their voices for presidential change" - to just that. Here's excerpt:
"Celebrities, including musicians, should not fear using their renown for the causes they support; they must be equally aware of whom they align themselves with. Celebrities are no different than common folk when it comes to the trappings of power. The sense or belief that you have access can dupe you into not seeing things that may be unattractive about those who offer you the access."
To get more, get the book!
Leaving you with some advice from the great Dr.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HT4RainY-lY

Rick Raymond

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I believe Rona and Corey both offer valuable perspectives. Those with access have opportunity to reach a significantly larger audience than most people, and I believe have a responsibility to. But in efforts of being effective it can, at times, be an easier way out - they are there anyway. (An exception was Meryl Streep's statement at the Golden Globes.) Timing and content are important. Kustcher before Congress may have a more significant impact for taking the extra effort and time, appearing before congress, on their turf, as an informed individual, and I expect more likely listened to by those to who the message is directed.

Robert Giamboi

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Couldn't agree with you more Rona. It's not the time or place. We're watching because of their achievements as an artist- not a political pundit.

Marilyn Genoa

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I agree that timing and content are important, as is the audience who is listening. I am not certain that giving testimony before Congress to an audience unwilling to actually hear the words said will have a more positive impact. Is the perception better? Perhaps--- however that is not an opportunity made available to all. I was not aware of Kutcher's testimony before Congress, and thank Rona for bringing it to my attention.

Cynthia Somma

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I'm LOL, Rona...as a shy person I find it very admirable to stand up in front of millions and speak your mind. The venue does not bother me, ruffle some feather's--we will all survive.

I'm actually laughing because you must have encountered many times in the courtroom, where some one could not control themselves. Granted, not political...but get someone fired up---watch out :)

Rona Gura

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I'm laughing with you. At those times in the courtroom, I generally sit back and enjoy the show. I sometimes even wonder where the popcorn is. :) I always say, a good lawyer knows when to sit down and shut up.

Cayce Crown

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I'm a big fan of people who have earned an audience to use it however and wherever they choose to express themselves. Especially in these times of new awakening. People have been so afraid to tell their own truths that we don't seem to know how to communicate with each other. I hope everyone will express themselves, kindly, calmly, telling your truth whenever and wherever you can. #WeAreAllPundits

Nancy Schess

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Great topic Rona. And I think we are going to continue to see this trend. For me, I lean towards those who say use your celebrity.