Sacheen Littlefeather: 50 years later! Oscar Academy apologizes

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Oscar Academy apologizes to her

The Oscar Academy has officially apologized to US actress and American Indian Movement activist Sacheen Littlefeather, 75, for the 1973 Oscar ceremony.

Sacheen Littlefeather turned down Oscar on behalf of Marlon Brando

This was announced by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences on Monday. At the time, Littlefeather appeared on behalf of Hollywood star Marlon Brando, † 80, to reject his Oscar for best actor for his role in “The Godfather” (1972).

At the awards ceremony nearly 50 years ago, Littlefeather read a message from Brando, citing the stereotypes of Native Americans in the entertainment industry and the 1973 protest at Wounded Knee in South Dakota.

Bold protest on stage

Littlefeather, a White Mountain Apache, appeared in a documentary titled “Sacheen: Breaking the Silence” last year and said Brando was thrilled with her performance. However, she then felt abandoned by the actor when there was backlash over her appearance. In the documentary, she claimed she was “blacklisted” by Hollywood and never landed a film or television role again.

The Academy has now confirmed that this moment has led to her being “professionally boycotted, personally attacked and harassed and discriminated against for 50 years”.

“The abuse you have endured as a result of this statement was unwarranted and unjustified. The emotional toll you have endured and the cost to your own career in our industry is beyond repair,” the letter reads. The courage she showed has not been appreciated for far too long. “We sincerely apologize for this and express our sincere admiration.”

Littlefeather reacts with a side swipe – and yet touched

The “Reconciliation Statement,” signed by former Academy President David Rubin — who recently became President Janet Yang, 66 — was sent out in June but was only released today after the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures announced its plans for “An Evening with Sacheen Littlefeather ” announced. The event, which Littlefeather is also involved in, will take place on September 17th.

“As for the Academy’s apology to me, we Indians are very patient. It’s only been 50 years! We must always keep our sense of humor. It’s our way of surviving,” Littlefeather said in the Academy press release.

“I never thought that I would live to see the day that this program with such wonderful indigenous performers […] takes place. This is a dream come true. It’s deeply encouraging to see how much has changed since I didn’t accept the Academy Award 50 years ago. I’m so proud of every single person that will appear on stage.”

Source used: oscars.org

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