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The Los Angeles Police Department said Friday it would increase security outside the Academy Awards on Sunday in anticipation of protests, blockades and other attempts to disrupt the ceremony.
Police said they would be ready for any protests that might develop outside the Dolby Theater in Hollywood, where the 96th Academy Awards will be held. “The LAPD is preparing for all possible protests, including protests related to the conflict between Israel and Hamas,” the department said in a statement.
The Academy Awards will have approximately 2,000 security officers on hand, and LAPD officers will also step up their presence to “prevent disruptions from protesters, ensuring a focus on celebrating cinematic achievements,” the department said in a statement. release.
The LAPD will attempt to communicate with protesters to ensure that activists can exercise their First Amendment rights without disrupting the awards ceremony, according to a statement from the LAPD commander. Randy Goddard, who heads up department security during the event. The LAPD will also manage any potential blockades around the venue to ensure guests can enter the venue safely.
“Officers are working closely with event organizers and security agencies, implementing comprehensive measures to ensure a safe Oscars experience for everyone,” Goddard said in his statement.
Over the years, the Oscars have seen several moments that led to political protests, but they rarely resulted in events that disrupted the ceremony.
In 1978, Vanessa Redgrave won an Oscar in the supporting actress category for her portrayal of an anti-Nazi activist in “Julia.” She produced a pro-Palestinian television documentary that she defended during her acceptance speech, which drew audible boos from the audience.
In 2003, documentary filmmaker Michael Moore also drew boos when he accepted the Oscar for his film “Bowling for Columbine” in the documentary feature category. Moore criticized then-President George W. Bush for the Iraq War, which he had started just days before the ceremony. He called Bush a “fictitious president” and added: “Shame on you!”
In recent months, protests over the war in Gaza have spread to the streets and highways. Large crowds have marched through Los Angeles (and around the world) following Hamas’ October 7 attack on Israel.
Riotous protesters calling for a ceasefire in Gaza put an end to Rep. Adam B. Schiff’s election night victory speech in Hollywood. Activists covered in fake blood have cried during city council meetings in Ojai in recent months, and many more have followed President Biden during his campaign stops across the country.