The damage has already been done so why is the Hollywood Foreign Press Association even trying anymore?
So I’m just not going to mince words. The HFPA is trash and there has been no sign of hope that anything could save this problematic organization that puts on the Golden Globes.
Nonetheless, the HFPA is still trying. They released a statement on Friday with an outline and a code of conduct to help reform the organization.
“As we’ve said before, we are dedicated to transformational reform and are implementing changes as quickly as possible without sacrificing the integrity of the process,” said the statement.
It continued, “In the spirit of transparency and accountability, we intend to regularly update the industry and the public on our progress with our timeline, with more details to come in the coming weeks.”
“We have been troubled by reports that certain members have engaged in unacceptable behavior in the past, and we are deeply committed to ensuring that it does not happen again and that interactions with the HFPA and its members embody mutual respect. Our new code of conduct, and the policies that will be released in coming weeks, are designed to achieve that fundamental and necessary objective.”
In case you missed it, the Los Angeles Times published a two articles that put a glaring spotlight on the corruption happening behind the scenes. And let’s not forget how the HFPA was also called out for its lack of Black members. Also,
And long-time HFPA member and former president of the organization, Philip Berk was expelled for sending a racist email describing the Black Lives Matter as a “racist hate movement.” He also criticized BLM co-founder Patrisse Cullors for buying a home in Topanga Canyon.
So in their performative attempt to fix this, HFPA members approved a new Code of Professional and Ethical Conduct. “We want to be clear that a fundamental pillar of our reform plan is accountability,” the statement continued. “The HFPA condemns any and all forms of harassment, discrimination and abuse. Such behavior is unacceptable and disciplinary action will be taken for violations of our new Code. All members – both new and old — will be expected to follow this new code of conduct, and will be held accountable if they do not.”
A code of conduct won’t fix any of this. The only way to make change is to make an example out of the HFPA. Dismantle them. End the Golden Globes. Netflix, Amazon, publicists and a whole coalition of Hollywood professionals have been coming forward to pressure the HFPA to make change. I’m just done with the HFPA’s malarkey.
Make the official launch awards season the Indie Spirit Awards. There’s more integrity at Film Independent than the HFPA.