Title: Academy Museum Gala Postponed Amidst Ongoing Conflict in Israel
Subtitle: Hollywood Stands in Support of Israeli and Palestinian Lives Affected by the Violence
Date: October 13, 2023
The highly anticipated Academy Museum of Motion Pictures’ annual fundraiser, scheduled for this weekend, has been postponed due to the recent terrorist attacks in Israel. The decision was made out of respect for the devastating conflict and loss of life happening overseas, as announced by a spokesperson for the Jacqueline Stewart-led organization.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Academy Museum expressed their solidarity with the innocent lives affected by the ongoing violence, condemning all forms of hate and cruelty. As a result, the red carpet event planned for October 14 was also canceled.
The recent Hamas blitz across the border from Gaza into southern Israel on October 7 has resulted in over 1,200 deaths and nearly 3,000 injuries. Countless individuals, from young children to the elderly, have also been taken as hostages. In response to the siege, the Israeli Defense Force has carried out airstrikes on Gaza, and there are indications of an impending ground invasion.
Amidst expressions of solidarity and support for those affected, SAG-AFTRA canceled planned picketing in Los Angeles and New York City due to potential safety concerns. Law enforcement agencies have increased their presence at synagogues and other locations in anticipation of a global day of anger in support of Hamas, which is scheduled for tomorrow.
The Academy Museum Gala, a significant fundraising event since the museum’s opening in late 2021, aims to raise funds for exhibitions, education initiatives, and public programming. This year’s co-chairs are renowned figures in the entertainment industry, including Ava DuVernay, Dr. Eric Esrailian, Halle Berry, and Ryan Murphy. The gala’s honorees for 2023 include Meryl Streep, Michael B. Jordan, Oprah Winfrey, and Sofia Coppola.
While the Gala has been postponed for now, the Academy Museum and its supporters remain committed to rescheduling the event at a later date. The organization extends their gratitude to everyone for their continued support during these challenging times.
As the conflict continues to unfold, the world watches with concern, hoping for a peaceful resolution and an end to the violence in Israel and Palestine.