The 2021 Oscars was a ceremony of many firsts. Not only did it take place during a pandemic, which called for more accommodations than usual, but it also showcased a multitude of diverse wins. Several individuals of color won awards within their respective categories, an unprecedented feat based on the winners of previous years.

    Witnessing people of color win in their categories inspired the many minorities watching at home. Nicole Wu, a senior at Mark Keppel, says, “I’m hoping that this means I would see more people who look like me in the media.” As diversity and inclusion within mainstream films continue to increase, children of minority groups will gain more role models to look up to. They would never have to compare themselves to an actor who fails to accurately represent minority groups in ways that matter. 

     Diversity in the film industry would also bring awareness to the different ethnicities encompassed in the umbrella term “minorities.” Allison Navarro, a junior at Mark Keppel, says, “With more cultures being able to be represented in film, this would open up to all Americans the difference in cultures that we have and hopefully shed light on stereotypes.” Wu agrees with Navarro as Wu also says, “I believe that this will bring issues that minorities experience to the mainstream that will finally be more and more understood.” 

     Recognizing the awareness that follows the inclusion of people of color in more films, the awards given to minorities could possibly influence a positive change in the film industry. However, a junior at Mark Keppel, who wants to remain anonymous, says, “I don’t necessarily think the Oscar wins will lead to more inclusivity within the industry. It’ll come from pressure by audiences to create more diverse films and give awards to non-white actors or actresses,” which is exactly what happened. The Oscars previously received backlash for the lack of diversity within their nominees. Back in 2015, the hashtag #OscarsSoWhite was trending on the internet, effectively forcing the Oscars to reflect on their mistakes and start anew, which they tried to accomplish by diversifying their members and including more women and people of color.

     Even with their efforts, the Oscars are still well away from being labeled as inclusive and diverse, but this year’s list of winners show that a step is being taken in the right direction.