Jane Fonda’s Inspiring SAG Awards Speech: Why Empathy Is a Powerful Force, Not Weakness

Jane Fonda, a bold voice in politics since the Vietnam War, won a lifetime achievement award at the Screen Actors Guild Awards. During her acceptance speech, she passionately called for people to prepare and resist the challenges we face.

At 87, Fonda stated, “Empathy is not weak or woke.” She emphasized that being “woke” simply means caring about others. Though she didn’t mention President Trump directly, Fonda warned that many people could be harmed by current events. “We need to draw on our empathy,” she stated, urging listeners to be open-hearted and inclusive. “We are going to need a big tent to resist what is coming.”

Fonda, who has won two Academy Awards, has a long history of activism. She has supported civil rights, Indigenous rights, and strongly opposed the Vietnam War, earning the nickname “Hanoi Jane” after a controversial visit to North Vietnam in 1972. In recent years, her focus has shifted to the climate crisis, which she sees as an urgent issue needing attention.

During her speech, Fonda also expressed her support for labor unions, recalling how Hollywood figures fought against McCarthyism in the late 1950s. She believes that Americans today face similar challenges as those experienced during key social movements, like the civil rights struggle and the fight against apartheid.

Fonda’s words remind us all of the importance of empathy, understanding, and solidarity in times of rising challenges. Through her activism, she continues to inspire many to engage and advocate for a better future.

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United States Politics and Government,Actors and Actresses,Screen Actors Guild,Fonda, Jane,Demonstrations, Protests and Riots,Trump, Donald J,Presidential Transition (US)