The Ukrainian community in the United States has expressed outrage at the decision of the American Film Academy to nominate Russian actor Yuri Borisov for an Oscar in the Best Supporting Actor category for his role in the film Anora (2024). Activists have launched a petition demanding that the Academy be held accountable for legitimising an actor who supports the Putin regime.
This was reported in the petition of the Ukrainian American House.
"By awarding Borisov, the Academy is effectively legitimising an actor who has openly supported Russia's illegal war against Ukraine and actively participated in Kremlin-sponsored propaganda campaigns. By nominating Borisov, the Academy has sent a dangerous signal that actors who support authoritarian regimes and engage in propaganda can be honoured on the world's biggest film stage. This undermines the core values of democracy, human rights and respect for national sovereignty," the petition's initiators say.
The petition notes that Borysov has repeatedly publicly demonstrated support for the Kremlin's aggressive policies, starring in the propaganda film AK-47, which was filmed in occupied Crimea, and attending pro-Kremlin events.
"The Academy's decision to honour Borisov contributes to the normalisation of Russian cultural influence at a time when Russia is waging an unjustified and brutal war against Ukraine. At a time when the international community must remain united in confronting Russia's aggression, the entertainment industry should not provide a platform for those who promote the narratives of repressive regimes. Artistic freedom does not mean honouring those who contribute to the normalisation of war crimes and violations of international law," the petition states.
The authors of the petition called on the Academy to publicly acknowledge the public's concerns about Borisov's nomination, to adhere to stricter ethical standards in selecting nominees, and to ensure that future nominations are consistent with the values of peace, justice and human rights.
The petition was initiated by the Ukrainian American House, a non-profit Ukrainian-American organisation, and the Sunflower Society, an activist movement in Sacramento, California.
"California, home to a large Ukrainian-American community, has consistently shown leadership in supporting Ukraine. Governor Gavin Newsom and the California legislature have taken a clear stand against Russian aggression, and we urge the Academy to uphold these values in its future decisions," the petition reads.
The activists are calling on the Ukrainian community and all concerned to sign the appeal to counter the normalisation of war and propaganda in the entertainment industry.
"Please sign this petition to oppose the normalisation of war and propaganda in the entertainment industry. Together we demand accountability from the Academy and a greater commitment to global justice," remarked activist Olga Noshyn.
Author: Inna Mikhno