Oscars 2017: Why people are wearing blue ribbons to the ceremony

They're popping up all over the red carpet, but why?

Sarah Jones
Sunday 26 February 2017 21:41 EST
Comments
(Getty Images)

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

It’s the annual be-all and end-all of glamorous Hollywood events and, as usual, we’re engrossed by what the stars are wearing the moment they hit the red carpet.

But for 2017, things are taking a slightly more political turn.

Forget statement shoes, crystal-drop earrings and bags. Tonight, the must-have red-carpet accessory is a blue ribbon.

Dressed to protest, it seems as though the ceremony’s biggest political statements are coming from the catwalk outside with stars signifying their support for the American Civil Liberties Union.

(Getty Images
(Getty Images (Getty Images)

In aid of the new “Stand with ACLU” initiative launched last week, Hollywood icons are being encourages to wear the ribbon as an act of solidarity with the organisation which has campaigned for nearly 100 years to defend and protect the individual rights of citizens.

Early to the red carpet, Irish-Ethiopian actress Ruth Negga pinned one to the bodice of her bright red Valentino gown. Fitting, seeing as the non-profit organisation supplied the legal resources for the couple featured in the film she’s nominated for, Loving.

(Getty Images)

Actor Lin Manuel-Miranda and his mother, known as staunch defenders of human rights, also sported ribbons onto their red-carpet finery as did supermodel Karlie Kloss, who showed her support wearing one low on the hip of her all-white Stella McCartney gown.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in