Not a bully pulpit; just free speech
Marc Bulandr (Oscars Are Not A Political Platform) objects to actors and actresses, and specifically Sean Penn, using the Oscars as their "bully pulpit" to advance "pet causes." He writes, "The context is off. It's not relevant."
Does Bulandr really not see the relevance of Penn's vocal support for gay rights to the role for which he won Best Actor - his portrayal of California's first openly gay elected official, Harvey Milk? Is Bulandr unaware that Penn's comments were directed at the angry, anti-gay protesters who met him outside the theater carrying signs and chanting their message of hate? Does this put Penn's words in context and add to their relevance? MILK is a highly controversial, political movie that evokes emotionally charged discussions wherever they occur. Bulandr acknowledges that his critics will say this a free-speech issue, but quickly dismisses the speech as being wrong in the context of the Oscars. He obviously doesn't grasp his own power to mute or turn off his television, and boycott films starring actors and actresses who say things he doesn't like.
What he can't do is establish rules for what can and cannot be said in acceptance speeches.
Sheryl Jedlinski
Palatine