If you tuned into the Oscars 2023 red carpet and awards ceremony earlier today, you might have noticed a few celebrities sporting a distinct accessory: a blue ribbon. Wearing one at the awards has meant different things over the years, such as supporting the ACLU back in 2017. What does this Blue Ribbon signify now and why did stars like Cate Blanchett choose to wear it at the event today?
The Blue Ribbon at the 95th Academy Awards signified that whoever wore one stood in solidarity with people affected by the global refugee crisis. The symbol has been approved and promoted by the UNHCR and celebrities have used it to show their stand. The ribbons were made by hand at Knotty Tie Co., which supports resettled refugees through employment and education.
Who wore the Blue Ribbon at Oscars 2023 and what did they support by wearing it?
Best Actress nominee Cate Blanchett has been a vocal supporter of the global refugee crisis throughout the awards season. She spoke about her interactions with refugees from countries like Lebanon, Jordan, Bangladesh, and even those living in the UK and Australia.
Cate Blanchett will wear blue ribbon made by refugees. The #WithRefugees ribbon is "an emblem of compassion and solidarity for those who have been forced to flee their homes because of war, conflict and persecution." The ribbons are made by refugees at Knotty Tie Co. #Oscars pic.twitter.com/bjeikaYx4w
— Chris Gardner (@chrissgardner) March 12, 2023
Celebrities like Gugu Mbatha-Raw were spotted wearing the Blue Ribbon not just at the Oscars, but also other awards such as the BAFTAs and the Golden Globes. The symbol has become a visual emblem to raise awareness for refugees around the world.
The Blue Ribbon was also donned by Jamie Lee-Curtis, who took home the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for her role in Everything Everywhere All At Once. UN Goodwill Ambassador and Olympic swimmer Yusra Mardini also wore the blue ribbon. Mardini became a member of the first Refugee Olympic Athletes Team.
How does the Blue Ribbon help the global refugee crisis?
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees had stated that the blue ribbon or the #WithRefugees symbol is an emblem of compassion and solidarity for refugees who have fled their homes due to war and conflict.
However, #WithRefugees is not just about the blue ribbon. It’s a coalition of universities, businesses, and NGOs who have come together to help refugees and call for international support.
The global refugee crisis worsened in the past year after the Russia-Ukraine conflict added to the tally of over 103 million forcibly displaced people. The recent earthquakes in Turkey and Syria have also led to countless being displaced from their homes.
Why did the film industry support the refugee cause at the Oscars?
Stars often use major awards platforms to show what they believe in, especially a significant social cause. Moreover, the Oscars is arguably the biggest event in film and entertainment. It only makes sense to use such a big stage to voice out support. In fact, Leonardo DiCaprio used the entirety of his Best Actor speech in 2016 to talk about climate change.
Stars on the #Oscars red carpet are standing #withrefugees tonight and supporting films:
✍️ written by refugees
🎬 directed by refugees
📽️ featuring refugees
🎞️ about refugeesRT to show you stand with refugees too! pic.twitter.com/octPHkul0e
— USA for UNHCR (@UNRefugeeAgency) March 13, 2023
2023’s Oscars had a diverse list of winners with increased South Asian representation and the Blue Ribbon’s cause boosts the public image of the Academy.
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