In 2015, right after the nominations for the 87th Academy Awards nomination, media strategist, lawyer and diversity advocate April Reign began a campaign with the hashtag #OscarSoWhite to draw attention to the seeming disparity in the award selection as well as the composition of the Academy which was predominantly male and White.

Despite the concerns raised, the same scenario played out in the 88th Academy Awards which reinforced the hashtag and drew wide publicity despite many outstanding performances by Black actors in several film productions for that year.

For so long Black actors and actresses had been ignored and passed over for roles despite their remarkable skills and contributions to the industry. Notwithstanding the biases they faced, the community of Black artists and actresses have gone on to direct, produce, and act in several Oscar-winning movies.

From dramas, comedy, thrillers, and action movies, Black actors have not only brought genuineness to their roles but also carved their storylines to reflect the life, struggles, dreams, experiences, and expectations of African Americans thereby setting the stage for the many Oscar successes that have been recorded over the years.

With several performances from Black talents like Chiwetel Ejiofor, Will Smith, Viola Davis, the Late Chadwick Boseman, Samuel L. Jackson, Morgan Freeman, Halle Berry, Taraji P. Henson and a host of many other actors and actresses, stereotypes are not only being addressed, but their spectacular performances in several award-winning movies have garnered the much-needed acceptance and respect of Black talent in Hollywood.

Chiwetel Ejiofor (Public Domain), Morgan Freeman (Public Domain), and Halle Berry (Photo by Gage Skidmore, via Wikimedia Commons)

Movies like Black Panther, Moonlight, Fences, 12 Years a Slave, Pursuit of Happiness, A Time to Kill, American Skin, The Hate You Give, and The Banker, have resonated deeply with audiences, questioned racial prejudices within the country, and drawn broad-based appeal for its unique storyline and emotional complexities.

Though many have not received the Oscar Statuette throughout their lifelong careers, many have continued to stand out through the various nominations in the different award categories as well as the recognition of their work in various media platforms.

Ryan Coogler (Photo by Gage Skidmore, via Wikimedia Commons), Tyler Perry (Photo by AMFM Studios LLC via Wikimedia Commons), and Ava Duvernay (Photo by Stephanie Moreno/Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communications via Wikimedia Commons)

Another growing trend in the movie industry is the rise of Black movie producers and directors. The likes of Spike Lee, Jordan Peele, Ryan Coogler, Antoine Fuqua, Denzel Washington, Tyler Perry, Forest Whitaker, Whoopi Goldberg, Kasi Lemmons, Angela Bassett, Ava DuVernay, Eddie Murphy, amongst many others, are breaking ground with their unique storyline, and excellent filmmaking.

Their accomplishments have continued to inspire a new generation of producers and directors. Whether it be on stage plays or in movie production, these budding Black talents have continued to make their mark in the world of film production. Ultimately ensuring that with time and proper guidance, these connoisseurs of the creative arts would also take the Oscars by storm.

The rise of Black talent at the Oscars is a testament to the resilience and perseverance of a people who are committed to rising above whatever limitation that they encounter and ensuring that through the honing of their craft, they can showcase their talent to the world and receive the accolades that are due them.

Okechukwu Nzeribe works with the Onitsha Chamber of Commerce, in Anambra State, Nigeria, and loves unveiling the richness of African cultures. okechukwu.oniccima@gmail.com