Academy admits diversity a ‘work in progress’ after ‘all-white’ Oscars shortlist following criticism

Following a barrage of criticism over an ‘all-white’ nominees list, academy president Cheryl Boone Isaacs has said the all-white acting slate inspires her to accelerate the academy’s push to be more inclusive

The first black president of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS), known for its annual Academy Awards (Oscars), insisted the academy is “committed to seeking out diversity of voice and opinion” and that outreach to women and artists of colour is a major focus.

In her words, “In the last two years, we’ve made greater strides than we ever have in the past toward becoming a more diverse and inclusive organisation… And, personally, I would love to see and look forward to see a greater cultural diversity among all our nominees in all of our categories”.