LGBTQ Activists Say Kevin Hart’s Oscars Resignation Was A “Missed Opportunity”

LGBTQ activists have spoken out against Kevin Hart’s decision to walk away from hosting the 2019 Oscars after backlash over past homophobic tweets. President of advocacy organization #GLAAD, Sarah Kate Ellis, tweeted that Hart should have “stepped up” after his tweets resurfaced from nearly a decade ago.

Ellis tweeted, “Kevin Hart shouldn’t have stepped down; he should have stepped up. Hart’s apology to #LGBTQ people is an important step forward, but he missed a real opportunity to use his platform and the #Oscars stage to build unity and awareness.”

Shortly after Kevin’s apology was made on #Twitter, Human Rights Council President Chad Griffin, responded to Hart’s decision in a tweet, stating, “You have a rare opportunity to take responsibility, teach people in this moment, & send a message to LGBTQ youth that they matter & deserve dignity & respect. You say you’ve grown. Show us. Make amends for hurtful things you’ve said & affirm LGBTQ people.”

The Academy still has not made a public statement regarding Hart’s decision or his replacement for the 91st Academy Awards, which will be held in February 2019.