Over the past few years, the Academy Awards have seen a good bit of criticism over their lack of diversity.
While the changes being announced by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences will not take place until 2022 since the nominating process for the 2021 Oscars has already begun, there are plans for more diversity and inclusion in the nominating process.
Beginning with the 94th annual Academy Awards, the category for Best Picture will include 10 nominees. In the past the number of nominees has varied from five to 10.
The Academy is also working on ways to increase diversity and inclusion across all categories.
After a call of #OscarsSoWhite, The Academy has created Academy Aperture 2025 to increase diversity and inclusion.
The Academy has achieved the first of their diversity goals by doubling the number of female and minority members. Currently females make up 32 percent of The Academy membership with people of colour comprising 16 percent of the membership.
Academy CEO Dawn Hudson issued a statement on the matter saying, “while the Academy has made strides, we know there is much more work to be done in order to ensure equitable opportunities across the boar. The need to address this issue is urgent. To that end, we will amend — and continue to examine — our rules and procedures to ensure that all voices are heard and celebrated.”
The Office of Representation, Inclusion, and Equity will oversee the Aperture 2025.