We all knew the MeToo and TimesUp movements (or ones like it) were bound to sweep our nation’s headlines at some point, but who knew it would start now and take off so fast. Women, especially famous actresses, are coming out with their stories every day and speaking their truth in order to give comfort to other victims and make a change.

Every year the academy of film arts and sciences holds the academy awards to acknowledge movie actors and actresses for their work in the year’s most exciting films. These inspiring movements have made their way in every celebrity speech, interview, junket, and of course, the community of actors used the Oscars as another platform to talk about the issues at hand.

A lot of people think celebrities shouldn’t give their political opinions and that they shouldn’t try to “persuade” anyone. Some think they aren’t educated enough to talk about the issues, or that it’s simply not their place. This is said time and time again like during presidential races when celebrities help campaign for their favorable candidates.

But whether you believe in celebrities sharing their opinions or not, one would have to agree that these award shows aren’t necessarily a bad thing for our democracy. Everyone has different views, but regardless of your party stance, you have to admit that these award shows and celebrities talking about politics in general is a new way for people, especially young people, to get information.

I know what you’re thinking, ‘But all the information is skewed because of those celebrities’ biases!’ And you’re absolutely right!

Obviously if this is where you are first getting information about the climate of our nation, it might not all be accurate or objective, but my point here is that at least people watching who maybe don’t watch their preferred newscast every night can understand what’s happening in the nation, and actually might care once they hear their favorite actor or director speak out about the issues.

When Frances McDormand makes a speech with feminist tones and speaks out for the movements, you could think ‘wow she’s amazing, I agree with her’ or you could think ‘I don’t know if I like what she’s saying here’, but again, at least you’re absorbing information about what’s happening in the country and can start to learn more about the things you’d normally know absolutely nothing about.

You don’t have to agree with me either, but everyone is always wondering what it will take for the “young people” to vote, to open up to talking about politics, to take an interest in current events, and this is just one of many.