Margot Robbie wrote an open letter to Hollywood
On Monday night, the women of Tinseltown came together at Elle’s 24th annual Women in Hollywood gala, and it was an evening of empowerment, mutual support, and — in light of the recent Harvey Weinstein allegations — reflection on what it means to be a woman in both the industry and the world today. And instead of giving a traditional speech, Margot Robbie penned an open letter to Hollywood, which she read aloud.
Robbie said she got the inspiration for such a letter while recently re-watching The Breakfast Club.
For those who haven’t seen the iconic ’80s classic, the characters in the movie are assigned a thousand-word essay in which each must describe “who you think you are.” Margot turned the question back onto herself and on all women in the entertainment industry.
In her Dear Hollywood letter, Robbie started by acknowledging the fact that the last week’s news cycle was largely dominated by Harvey Weinstein, the sexual harassment and rape accusations against him, and the fact that women are regularly victims of sexual abuse and intimidation.
“We accept that we had to sacrifice a whole week standing our ground and defending our rights as women. But we think you’re crazy to make us write an essay telling you who we think we are when you still see us as you want to see us: in the simplest terms and the most convenient definitions.
She went on to describe what it’s like being a woman in Hollywood and having to deal with sexism and unrealistic expectations on a daily basis.
“Being a woman in Hollywood means you will probably have to fight through degrading situations and will be offered chauvinistic roles by men who think that that’s all anybody wants to see us play. But even those of us lucky enough to have established a career in the hallowed grounds of show business are still in the shadows of the big trees, constantly reminded that we only grow in the sunshine they allow us.
She continued,
“These difficulties we face are [in the] same spirit of those faced by countless women all over the world who struggle for the right to earn a living, the right to be heard, and even the right to be safe from harm.”
Margot then highlighted the importance of sisterhood and women standing together.
“And, what I’ve come to understand is that, though we are unique and powerful as individuals, we are invincible when we come together.
And, of course, it wouldn’t be a letter inspired by The Breakfast Club without those famous last words…but Margot delivered them with a closing twist.
“In the words of The Breakfast Club, each one of us is a brain and an athlete and a basket case and a princess and a criminal. Does that answer your question? Sincerely yours, The Girls Club.”
We’re so inspired by Margot’s words and the words of everyone who has shared their story in recent days. Your strength and courage has us in awe.
