Oscars Ceremony Acknowledges Indigenous Lands, Faces Backlash on Social Media

The Academy Awards held on Sunday night featured a brief acknowledgment of indigenous land that attracted significant criticism across social media. The segment, introduced by actress Julianne Hough, aimed to honor the ancestral lands of various Native American tribes during the 97th annual Oscars ceremony.

Land Acknowledgment at the Oscars

In a concise 15-second statement, Hough recognized the Tongva, Tataviam, and Chumash peoples, who have traditionally inhabited the Los Angeles area.

“We gather in celebration of the Oscars on the ancestral lands of the Tongva, Tataviam, and Chumash peoples, the traditional caretakers of this water and land. We honor and pay our respects to indigenous communities here and around the world,” Hough stated at the opening of the Hollywood awards show.

Social Media Reactions

Shortly after the acknowledgment aired, social media erupted with a wave of criticism. Many users labeled the segment as merely performative, questioning the sincerity of such gestures if they do not lead to tangible action.

Abigail Jackson, communications director for Senator Josh Hawley, remarked, “Performative nonsense. Give the land back if you’re so woke.”

Contributing to the discourse, Washington Examiner writer Brad Polumbo expressed his strong feelings by stating, “I repeat: give it back or shut the f— up!” These reactions illustrate a growing sentiment among critics who demand accountability rather than symbolic gestures.

Critical Questions Raised

Various commentators posed critical questions regarding the implications of a land acknowledgment. Connor Boyack, president of the Libertas Institute, asked, “Do the named indigenous groups ever have to acknowledge who they took the land from?” This query highlights a perceived double standard in making acknowledgments without addressing historical injustices.

Former Democratic strategist Evan Barker echoed similar sentiments, posting his dismay with a single word: “WHHHYYY.” This succinct expression captured the frustration felt by many observers.

Marine Corps veteran Rick Swift posed a provocative question regarding personal responsibility, asking, “Will she be giving up her home?” Such inquiries compel audiences to consider the practicalities behind calls for reparative actions.

Political commentator Natalie Jean Beisner provided a candid look at her feelings regarding the clip, stating, “What I feel when I watch this clip is the same thing I feel when you say you ‘stand with [insert foreign nation here].’ If you stand with them, go fight and die for them. And if you’re standing on land owned by the ancient chupacabra and hitachi tribes, then give it back to them. Don’t pretend to care if you don’t actually care. Just be like me and say you don’t care.” This stark viewpoint emphasizes the need for genuine action over insincere acknowledgment.

Formal Land Acknowledgment in Los Angeles County

Los Angeles County, the traditional host of the Oscars, adopted a formal land acknowledgment in 2022. This declaration recognizes the counties’ historical connection to various Native American tribes.

The acknowledgment states, “The County of Los Angeles recognizes that we occupy land originally and still inhabited and cared for by the Tongva, Tataviam, Serrano, Kizh, and Chumash peoples. We honor and pay respect to their elders and descendants past, present, and emerging as they continue their stewardship of these lands and waters.”

Addressing Historical Injustices

The land acknowledgment further articulates a commitment to recognizing the historical injustices faced by indigenous populations. It notes, “We acknowledge that settler colonization resulted in land seizure, disease, subjugation, slavery, relocation, broken promises, genocide, and multigenerational trauma.” This language affirms the need for both truth and reconciliation in discussions surrounding indigenous rights.

Moreover, the acknowledgment emphasizes the county’s responsibility to elevate the stories, culture, and community of the original inhabitants of the region. The aim is not solely to recognize past injustices but also to foster healing and understanding within the community.

Moving Forward with Action

The heated discussions surrounding the Oscars’ land acknowledgment reveal a broader conversation about the importance of meaningful engagement with indigenous communities. Merely stating an acknowledgment is insufficient without efforts to restore rights, recognize histories, and build bridges toward understanding.

In the wake of the Oscars, public figures and institutions alike must consider how they can translate good intentions into significant actions. In an era of increased awareness regarding social justice, addressing these longstanding issues requires proactive efforts rather than superficial messages. As discussions continue, the call for genuine engagement with indigenous communities remains imperative, urging all to reflect on not only acknowledgment but also true accountability.