The 2017 Golden Globes red carpet has been defined by the unanimous wearing of the color black, as both men and women stand up for gender equality and protest against sexual harassment within all industries.
“The clock has run out on sexual assault, harassment and inequality in the workplace. It’s time to do something about it,” the Time’s Up organization against gender inequality in the workplace said, and in addition to raising approximately $15 million for a legal defense fund, they encouraged the adornment of black at this year’s Golden Globes to show solidarity towards the cause.
Prior to the red carpet, women utilized social media to share their message on their motivation for joining the movement.
“Today, we wear black. Why? Nearly 1/2 of men think women are well represented in leadership roles and 1/3 of women think women are well represented in leadership roles,” Ashley Judd, one of the first women to speak against Harvey Weinstein, posted via Instagram. “The *reality* is, only 1 in 10 senior leaders are women. #TimesUp #WhyWeWearBlack”
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“Wondering #WhyWeWearBlack ?!?!?! Because we stand with YOU!” Kerry Washington published on Instagram. “We stand in solidarity. Together we can end harassment, discrimination & abuse. And create safety, inclusion, equity & parity! FOR ALL PEOPLE. ACROSS ALL INDUSTRIES.”
Actress Amy Schumer captioned a picture of her and her mother in black clothing with, “My mom and I wearing black back when I didn’t know women would have to fight hard her whole life for basic human rights. I didn’t know how my friends of different races or sexual preferences would have such a difficult time with the lack of opportunity and poor treatment.”
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“I’m here because I hear the voices of women who said #MeToo,” said Viola Davis at the Golden Globes red carpet. “You’re born being worthy. And I think that’s a message that a lot of women need to hear.”
“#MeToo is really about everybody. I’m here to represent survivors around the world,” said Tarana Burke, founder of #MeToo, said on the red carpet after actress Michelle Williams brought her along as her date.
The women who are sharing their stories and messages outshine any winner of the night, and remind us all that stories go beyond film and television- real people have real stories to tell, and those who have chosen to do so for the sake of gender equality should be recognized for their bravery.