I used to think of the The Grammys, The Oscars, and The Golden Globes as glamorous award shows that I could snuggle up on the couch for with family, friends, and popcorn. I'd watch in amazement as incredible talent was recognized and comment on the beautiful fashion of the night. It was nice to be able to take a break from the real world and fantasize about what it would be like to have that much talent rolled into one being.

Now, I can't even stand to watch them.

All three of these award ceremonies have taken a turn for the worst. They've gotten political. Each ceremony this past year has focused on political and social issues instead of truly recognizing the incredible hard work of the nominees and winners. I understand that political and social issues are a big deal and that they should be talked about.

Voices and opinions should be heard and taken seriously. However, not everyone holds the same opinion, which is OK... until you decide to offend half the nation on live, national television. There are other platforms available to voice opinions and to make noise. We have rallies, debates, social media, talk shows, marches, etc. Celebrities especially have the capability and platforms to reach millions of people with their opinions.

So why use this celebration as an opportunity to make jabs at our new president? I have no idea.

The past year or so has been a turbulent time for our nation to say the least. The transition of power from President Obama to President Trump was not the smoothest. However, there are people on both sides of the spectrum. There are people who were devastated by the inauguration of our new commander-in-chief, and others who were optimistic and enthusiastic. No matter your opinions, do you really want to be reminded of the turmoil in our nation during what's supposed to be a celebration of talent and hard work?

Let's say you are upset about the new presidency — I doubt you want to be reminded that Donald Trump is your president in every monologue and speech. If you voted for Donald Trump, how happy are you that someone you support is being trashed on for the entirety of a show? Most of the people making these political statements are the winners themselves. I acknowledge that they have the right to say what they'd like in their acceptance speeches.

I just wish they'd use one of the other enormous platforms that are available to them because personally, I watch the award shows to be entertained. Not lectured. I'm clearly not the only one to think this, as the ratings of The Oscars and The Grammys have decreased drastically.

Not only are they unenjoyable for the public, but they've taken away the value of the awards for the winners and nominees. Each and every person who received a nomination deserved to have their time of recognition. The focus is now not on the accomplishments of these individuals, but on what political or social issue is going to address or poke fun in speeches. Natalie Portman introduced the nominees for Best Director at the Golden Globes by saying, "And here are the all-male nominees."

Soooo... they only got their award because they're male? They didn't work hard at all? These men do work hard for these major accomplishments and should be recognized and able to celebrate — not made into an example. Everyone nominated, male and female, worked incredibly hard and their accomplishments shouldn't be diminished with a political or social stunt.

Bringing political and social issues into these award shows and making jabs at the nominees disrespects every hard working person in that audience. These award shows are meant to recognize incredible achievements in our society, not dwell on the turmoil. They are meant to serve as a platform to celebrate hard work, dedication, service, and amazing talent, and is broadcasted for the entertainment of society.

Yes, political and social issues should be addressed and taken seriously. However, this is not the platform to do so. I hope that one day these award ceremonies can go back to recognizing true talent, and I can go back to watching them in my pajamas with my best friends: Ben & Jerry.