Jane Fonda, a veteran actress and activist, has never shied away from speaking her mind. Her long and storied career has been marked by controversy and criticism, but also by numerous awards and accolades. This past weekend, Fonda was awarded the Screen Actors’ Guild (SAG) Life Achievement Award, and she used her acceptance speech to make a powerful statement.
Fonda’s speech was a call to action, urging her fellow actors and citizens to stand up against injustice and to fight for what is right. She referenced Sebastian Stan’s portrayal of President Donald Trump in the 2024 film “The Apprentice,” and spoke about the importance of empathy and understanding in acting and in life.
The actress also defended the concept of “wokeness,” which has become a buzzword in recent years. “Empathy is not weak or ‘woke,'” she said. “And, by the way, ‘woke’ just means you give a damn about other people.” Fonda’s comments were met with applause and cheers from the audience, and her speech has been widely shared and discussed on social media.
Fonda’s statement comes at a time of great turmoil in US politics. President Trump’s second term in office has been marked by controversy and chaos, and many are concerned about the impact of his policies on the country and the world. Fonda’s speech was a powerful reminder of the importance of standing up for what is right, even in the face of adversity.
“Empathy is not weak or woke. By the way, ‘woke’ just means you give a damn about other people”
—Jane Fonda accepting her SAG Lifetime Achievement Award
See the full winners list: https://t.co/1H9Qsgq4hw pic.twitter.com/MzhLgEjdT5
— DiscussingFilm (@DiscussingFilm) February 24, 2025
The actress’s comments also highlighted the importance of empathy and understanding in these divisive times. “We are going to need a big tent to resist what’s coming at us,” she said. “And even if they are of a different political persuasion, we need to call upon our empathy and not judge, but listen from our hearts, and welcome them into our tent.”
Fonda’s speech was a testament to her enduring legacy as an actress and an activist. She has always been a powerful voice for justice and equality, and her words continue to inspire and motivate people around the world.
