America is indeed a divided nation and Hollywood has certainly played a role in this division. Hollywood, as one of the most influential institutions in the world, has a responsibility to reflect the society in which it exists. However, in recent years, it has been accused of promoting a particular political ideology, one that is often referred to as “woke.”
The term “woke” refers to a heightened sense of awareness and sensitivity towards issues of social justice and political correctness. In Hollywood, this has manifested in a number of ways, including the casting of actors from diverse backgrounds, the inclusion of more female and LGBTQ characters, and the tackling of controversial social and political issues in film and television.
While many see this as a positive development, others view it as a threat to traditional values and an attempt to impose a particular political viewpoint on the wider population. This has led to accusations that Hollywood is out of touch with the average American and is actively promoting a liberal agenda.
The divide between Hollywood and much of the American public was highlighted by the response to the 2020 Academy Awards. The ceremony was widely criticized for being too focused on politics and for neglecting to celebrate the art and craft of filmmaking. Many felt that the event was a platform for Hollywood to preach to the choir, rather than a celebration of the best in the film industry.
There’s no denying that Hollywood has the power to shape the cultural narrative and influence public opinion. However, this responsibility comes with a need to be aware of and sensitive to the diverse range of perspectives and experiences that exist within American society. When Hollywood fails to do this, it contributes to the wider divide in America and risks alienating large swathes of the population.
In conclusion, America is indeed divided and Hollywood has played its part in this division. While it’s important for the entertainment industry to tackle important social and political issues, it must also be mindful of the diverse range of perspectives that exist within society and ensure that it does not become a mouthpiece for a single political ideology.