BAFTA Incident Sparks Conversations: 'Sinners' Star Jayme Lawson on Exploitation and Inclusivity
In a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, actress Jayme Lawson addressed the incident at the BAFTAs, where Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo were subjected to a racist slur while presenting an award. Lawson, who stars in the film 'Sinners', highlighted the importance of understanding inclusion and the exploitation of disabilities.
"I want to commend Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo for their graceful and dignified response to the incident," Lawson said. "Their handling of the situation was a testament to their character and the support of the entire team present."
Lawson emphasized the systemic issue of inclusivity, stating, "Inviting someone into a space without providing the necessary resources to ensure their safety is not true inclusivity. It's exploitation."
She specifically addressed the incident involving John Davidson, who has Tourette Syndrome, and the subsequent offenses. "That man's disability was exploited, and it led to multiple offenses. The BAFTAs and the BBC's handling of the situation was careless and lacked the necessary care for the two Black men."
Furthermore, Lawson criticized the BBC's censorship of Akinola Davies Jr.'s speech, the director of 'My Father's Shadow', and the lack of protection for other individuals, including the production designer, Hannah Beachler. "The BBC knows how to protect what they care about, but they failed to protect us. That's why we celebrate films like 'Sinners' and the work of Ryan Coogler. We show up at events like the NAACP Image Awards because these spaces feel safe and supportive."
The NAACP Image Awards also saw Regina Hall's heartfelt gesture towards Jordan and Lindo, asking the audience to show their love, which was met with a round of applause. Delroy Lindo, speaking for the first time about the incident, expressed gratitude for the support and love received, turning a negative experience into a positive one.
