In 2002, Halle Berry became the first woman of color to win the best actress Oscar, and she tearfully dedicated her award to, "every nameless, faceless woman of color who now has a chance because this door has been opened."
Now, 15 years after her win for "Monster's Ball," Berry says that trophy feels almost meaningless, because no other woman of color has won the award since.
In an interview with Teen Vogue's editor-in-chief Elaine Welteroth, Berry addressed the Oscar race, describing the lack of diversity as a major issue.
"It’s troubling, to say the least,” she said, adding that her Oscar acceptance speech wasn't as impactful as she thought it would be. "That meant nothing. I thought it meant something, but I think it meant nothing.”
Academy of Motion Pictures invites 774 new members from 57 countries in diversity efforts Cheryl Boone Isaacs says 2017 Oscars proof 'art has no borders'Although Berry, 50, admits she's still "profoundly hurt" and "saddened" at what has transpired since her Oscar win, Berry says she's felt more "inspired to get involved in other ways" because of it.
"I want to start directing, I want to start producing more," she said. "I want to start being a part of making more opportunities for people of color.”
Following the #OscarsSoWhite controversy in 2015, the last two Academy Award ceremonies have included more nominees and winners of color. This year, Mahershala Ali won best supporting actor for "Moonlight" and Viola Davis, Naomie Harris and Octavia Spencer were all nominated for best supporting actress. Davis took the honor for her role in "Fences."