On Sunday, February 23rd, at the 2025 SAG Awards, Jane Fonda delivered a powerful speech that resonated far beyond the ceremony’s walls. Honored for her 65-year career, the Grace and Frankie star, a longtime advocate for queer and trans rights, emphasized the importance of empathy and solidarity in today’s challenging times.
"What we, actors, create is empathy. Our job is to understand another human being so profoundly that we can touch their soul,” Fonda stated. “And make no mistake: empathy is not weak or ‘woke.’ By the way, being woke simply means that you care about other people.”
Her message was a clear call to Hollywood and the entertainment industry, as the current political climate, marked by federal budget cuts and attacks on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), threatens many sectors, including the arts and culture.
"A lot of people are going to suffer because of what’s happening right now,” she warned. “Even if they don’t share our political views, we need to avoid judging and learn to listen with our hearts.”
Fonda also stressed the importance of staying united and standing up for the most vulnerable. “This is not a rehearsal. We are living through our documentary moment. It’s happening here and now, and we must not turn a blind eye. The situation is serious, so let’s be brave. Let’s stay in community, support those in need, and envision a future that is inspiring, welcoming, and full of hope."
She ended her speech on a note of optimism: “There will always be love, always be beauty. And there will be an ocean of truth where we can all swim. So, let’s make it happen."
A poignant reminder that the fight for a fairer and more inclusive world begins with empathy and collective action.
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