Why The Golden Globes Black-Dress Protest Is Important

It looks like we can expect a blackout on the Golden Globes’ red carpet tonight. While we often look forward to major awards shows to see what each star wears, the dress code at this year’s Golden Globes will be completely different than anything we’ve seen before. Many actresses will be wearing black at the awards show.

So what’s the reason for the more somber dress code? The Time’s Up movement. The movement, which was formally organized on January 1 by over three hundred industry professionals, was started as an anti-sexual harassment plan that’s already raised $13 million for its legal defense fund. It’s also encouraging female stars (and the men who support them) to wear black to the Golden Globes as a sign of solidarity against sexual harassment and assault.

Executive producer Shonda Rhimes and actress Yara Shahidi are among those involved in the movement, and female nominees like Mary J. Blige have already pledged to participate by wearing black on the red carpet. Designer Michael Costello also confirmed that black dresses have been in high demand by his A-list clients.

Blige, who is nominated for Best Supporting Actress in a Motion Picture for Mudbound, told Billboard, “I stand with those women. I champion them.” The singer/actress also said, “I think that will be really powerful. I will be in a black dress and be proud to be standing there with the other actresses.”

With powerful men in Hollywood like Harvey Weinstein and Russell Simmons recently being accused of sexual assault, Time’s Up is a strong and necessary one that follows the #MeToo movement.

The Golden Globes air on Sunday (January 7) on ABC at 8pm ET/5pm PT.