The upcoming Academy Awards ceremony is poised to become a focal point for not just glitz and glamour but potential disruptions, as the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) gears up to heighten security due to pro-Palestine protests scheduled during the star-studded event.
Organized by various groups, including Film Workers for Palestine, these protests stem from concerns that Israel may launch an attack on Rafah, Gaza, during the Oscars show.
Security Measures and Concerns:
In anticipation of the Oscars, set to commence with celebrities gracing the red carpet at 12:30 p.m. PT, the LAPD aims to prevent pro-Palestine protesters from hijacking the event.
Activist groups, notably Film Workers for Palestine, are orchestrating demonstrations to raise awareness about a purported planned invasion of Rafah by Israeli forces, strategically coinciding with the Oscar broadcast.
Protest Details and Motivations:
Scheduled to begin at 1 p.m., the protests organized by Film Workers for Palestine, alongside other groups like the LA chapter of Jewish Voice for Peace, SAG-AFTRA Members for Ceasefire, and the Adalah Justice Project, will unfold at the Cinerama Dome, approximately a mile away from the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood.
Motivated by the belief that global attention on the Oscars may serve as a distraction, these groups aim to shed light on alleged atrocities in Gaza.
In an Instagram post, Film Workers for Palestine expressed their determination, stating, “We will not let people turn away from the atrocities in Gaza. We are taking action and making sure Palestine will NOT be ignored for some glitz and glam.”
LAPD’s Approach and Communication:
LAPD Commander Randy Goddard emphasizes the department’s commitment to ensuring the success of the Academy Awards while respecting protesters’ constitutional rights.
Goddard articulates the dual goal of securing the event and engaging with groups peacefully to maintain a balance between public safety and freedom of expression.
Pre-Event Preparations and Road Closures:
Already, a section of Hollywood Boulevard has been closed for pre-show construction, with additional road closures in place for the Oscar ceremony.
Orange Drive to Highland Avenue and Hollywood Boulevard will remain closed until 6 a.m. on March 13, contributing to the logistical challenges surrounding the high-profile event.
Social Media Influence and Potential Disruptions:
Social media platforms, particularly TikTok, have become a forum for discussions about potential disruptions during the Oscars.
Some users encourage causing chaos, not through violence but by blocking roads and entry points to draw attention to the protest’s cause.
The Oscars telecast showrunner, Raj Kapoor, acknowledges these concerns, assuring that comprehensive plans are in place to address any disruptions swiftly.
Oscars Ceremony Details and Nominations:
Jimmy Kimmel is set to host the award show, beginning an hour earlier at 4 p.m. due to Daylight Savings, with the ceremony airing at 7 p.m. Eastern/4 p.m.
Pacific on ABC. Christopher Nolan’s film “Oppenheimer” leads the nominations with 13 nods and is considered a frontrunner for the coveted Best Picture award.
Conclusion:
As the entertainment industry gears up for the Oscars, the LAPD’s increased security measures underscore the delicate balance between celebrating cinematic achievements and acknowledging the pressing global issues that have led to planned protests.
The Oscars’ global reach amplifies the potential impact of these demonstrations, creating a complex backdrop for an event that traditionally focuses on Hollywood’s finest.
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