Lady Gaga delivered a poignant tribute to survivors of sexual assault during her performance at the 88th Academy Awards. The emotional impact of seeing a multitude of survivors standing beside her as she sang the haunting words from “Til It Happens to You” was profound, evoking tears from many in attendance. This moment will be etched in the memories of viewers for years to come.
While Hollywood award shows are often synonymous with glamorous gowns and comedic hosts attempting to enliven what can be a monotonous event, Gaga’s performance stood out by addressing a crucial issue that is rarely tackled in such settings. Co-written with Diane Warren, her song was nominated for Best Original Song and was crafted for The Hunting Ground, a documentary that sheds light on sexual assault on college campuses and the victim-blaming culture that often follows.
Vice President Joe Biden introduced Gaga, emphasizing the urgency of addressing this national crisis, stating, “Too many women and men … are still victims of sexual abuse.” Gaga, who is herself a survivor of sexual assault, has been an outspoken advocate on social media. In a candid conversation with a radio host, she revealed being assaulted at 19 by an older man, a traumatic experience that took her years to address. “It changed my life. It changed who I was completely,” she shared during a panel discussion.
The most impactful aspect of Gaga’s performance was the presence of her fellow performers. Approximately 50 men and women who have survived sexual assault stood with her, bearing messages on their arms such as “not my fault” and “unbreakable.” As they raised their hands high, the emotional weight of the moment led many in the audience to tears.
Following the performance, both Gaga and Warren spoke about the significance of giving voice to the countless victims of sexual assault around the globe. “Tonight’s performance is about empowering those watching to get involved and become part of a solution,” Warren expressed, as reported by the Los Angeles Times.
Gaga took to social media to share her gratitude for the survivors who stood with her, stating, “Thank you for standing next to me on stage. Your bravery is inspiring. I will never forget it.” Although “Til It Happens to You” did not win an Oscar, the song and the real-life stories of its performers delivered a vital message amid the usual glitz of the night.
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In summary, Lady Gaga’s powerful performance at the Oscars, featuring survivors of sexual assault, transcended the usual award show spectacle, bringing attention to a critical issue while fostering a message of hope and resilience.