“Jane Fonda’s Powerful SAG Awards Speech: Embracing ‘Wokeness’ and Compassion for Others” | CNN

Jane Fonda faced some audio problems at the SAG Awards on Sunday night but still delivered a powerful message about activism.

At 87, Fonda received the SAG lifetime achievement award. She inspired those in the audience, saying, “It’s okay to be a late bloomer as long as you don’t miss the flower show.” She proudly referred to her award as part of her blooming journey, expressing her love for acting. “We get to open people’s minds, help them understand the world, and bring laughter in tough times,” she stated.

Fonda is as much an activist as she is a star. She expressed her strong belief in unions, emphasizing their importance in today’s world. “Worker power is under threat right now, and our communities are suffering,” she urged.

She highlighted how the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) stands out among unions. Unlike other trades, actors create empathy instead of tangible products. She shared insights about acting, explaining how understanding a character involves empathy, even for those with unlikable traits. “You have to connect with their pain, right?” she said, referencing actors like Sebastian Stan portraying challenging roles.

“Empathy is not weakness or ‘wokeness’,” Fonda insisted. To her, being ‘woke’ simply means caring about others. She also addressed some pressing issues, reminding everyone that many people will suffer from current events, regardless of their political beliefs. “We must open our hearts, listen, and welcome everyone, as we need a big tent to face upcoming challenges,” she advised.

Fonda connected her message to significant historical moments, noting, “We are in our documentary moment right now.” She offered hope and encouragement, sharing, “There will still be beauty, and an ocean of truth for us to swim in on the other side.”