(CNN) Joaquin Phoenix urged the film industry to dismantle a "system of oppression" in an acceptance speech at the British Academy Film Awards on Sunday. Phoenix said that while he felt "honored" to be in attendance and appreciated the support from the BAFTA organization, he was "ashamed" that actors of color were not afforded the "same privilege." "I feel conflicted because so many of my fellow actors that are deserving don't have that same privilege. I think that we send a very clear message to people of color that you're not welcome here," Phoenix said. The British Academy of Film and Television Arts stirred controversy last month when it was revealed that no people of color were nominated in the four film acting categories.

Source: CNN February 03, 2020 00:22 UTC