Kerry Washington Opens SAG Awards With A Powerful Message About Activism

By Sydney Scott · Updated October 26, 2020

Scandal actress Kerry Washington opened the 23rd annual Screen Actors Guild Awards with a powerful message to Donald Trump and those who believe actors should remain silent.

Looking into the camera, Washington said, “A lot of people are saying right now that actor should keep our mouths shut when it comes to politics. But the truth is, no matter what, actors are activists because we embody the humanity and worth of all people. This union helps me to do that.”

#sagawards pic.twitter.com/h9JUEl3NWH

— SAG Awards® (@SAGawards) January 30, 2017

I'll be wearing one of these tonight. On my arm. To show solidarity. We will not stop fighting for our safety & the safety of our fellow citizens and human beings. #NoBanNoWall #safetypin

A photo posted by Kerry Washington (@kerrywashington) on Jan 29, 2017 at 4:04pm PST

Other actors such as Sterling K. Brown followed with their own messages of solidarity. 

With so much at stake in the country right now, it’s wonderful to see actors speaking out and using their platforms to make a difference.