Jane Fonda, at 87, garnered attention with a powerful acceptance speech at the Screen Actors Guild Awards after receiving the esteemed Lifetime Achievement Award.
In her speech, Fonda redefined 'woke' as a positive attribute, advocating for empathy and addressing societal issues, the Daily Wire reported.
Upon receiving her award, Fonda expressed her gratitude and motivation. She reflected on her extensive career and remarked, “This means the world to me," adding that the enthusiastic response made her feel encouraged rather than nearing the end of her professional journey.
Jane Fonda, a longstanding figure in Hollywood since 1958, shared insights from her early days in the industry, marked by the challenges of McCarthyism. She drew parallels between the obstacles faced then and what Hollywood endures today, emphasizing the resilience and resistance found within the creative community.
Fonda's speech went beyond nostalgia, as she voiced her thoughts on more recent issues. She critiqued the weakening of worker power and community, emphasizing her support for unions, "I’m a big believer in unions. They have our backs,” she declared.
Highlighting the unique role of actors, Fonda described their job as creating empathy through a deep understanding of human emotions. “Our job is to understand another human being so profoundly that we can touch their souls,” she explained, underlining the psychological and emotional depth required in acting.
This emphasis on empathy connected to Fonda's defense of being "woke" — a term often met with criticism. She asserted, “Make no mistake, empathy is not weak or ‘woke.’ And by the way, ‘woke’ just means you give a damn about other people. Back to empathy.” This statement was a cornerstone of her speech, suggesting that awareness and caring for others are crucial for societal progress.
Despite her message of unity and understanding, Fonda's past as "Hanoi Jane" — a nickname from her controversial Vietnam War era visit — was not forgotten. Critics on social media still voiced their disapproval, challenging her political stances and actions from decades ago.
Jane Fonda encouraged the audience to view their role in society as part of a larger "documentary moment". She drew comparisons to historical social movements such as apartheid, civil rights, and Stonewall, inviting the audience to reflect on their courage and actions in today's context.
The actress noted that this moment in history is not a rehearsal but a live, evolving scene in which everyone plays a part. Such a perspective pushes the notion of civic duty beyond mere observation to active participation.
In a nod to the arts' impact on society, Fonda concluded her remarks with hope and an artistic metaphor: “There will still be love, there will still be beauty, and there will be an ocean of truth for us to swim in.” This poetic finale underscored her belief in the enduring power of truth and beauty, even in times of tumult.
Fonda's assertion that the ongoing struggles are akin to historical challenges reminds us that the fight for justice and understanding is continual. Her speech serves not only as a retrospective on her career but also as a call to action for the future.
As the industry and audiences digest her words, the resonance of her message about empathy, community, and action continues to stir discussions on social media and beyond. Fonda's legacy, thus, becomes a blend of her cinematic achievements and her fervent advocacy for social issues.
While the Screen Actors Guild Awards was a night to honor her lifetime of achievements, Jane Fonda turned it into a platform to champion empathy and engagement, urging those in the entertainment industry and beyond to harness their influence for communal progress and deeper understanding.
