<p>As the creator of the viral hashtag-turned-movement, #OscarsSoWhite , April Reign has been challenging the lack of representation of marginalized communities in Hollywood and beyond since 2015. </p><p>April practiced law for nearly twenty years, honing her talent for public speaking, persuasive writing and effecting policy change, but it wasn’t until she walked away from her legal practice that she found her true passion. Reigns’ #OscarsSoWhite movement has resulted in the most permanent systemic change ever seen in the over 80-year history of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Her name continues to be synonymous with this historic change, the results of which are reverberating throughout the entertainment industry and will do so for decades to come.</p><p>Reign is an influential and sought-after media presence, having built an impressive global organic social media following over several platforms, as well as a network of recognized celebrities, creators, activists, and decision makers at the corporate level. Reign capitalizes on this network and her experience, using her voice to spark conversations and explore issues of race, politics and culture, helping structure ways to turn dialogue into action.</p><p>April Reign travels internationally, speaking at academic institutions and conferences; is available for appearances at industry awards, festivals and events; and is highly sought-after for consulting with organizations regarding issues of diversity and inclusion.</p><p><br></p>
Creator of #OscarsSoWhite Hashtag and Social Justice Activist
<ul><li><strong>#OscarsSoWhite, #BlackTwitter, and Social Media: Pursuing Justice in the Digital Age</strong></li><li>Writer, editor, and former attorney April Reign examines the far-reaching impact of her viral hashtag, #OscarsSoWhite. While progress was made in 2017, the success of the film <i>Moonlight</i> at the Academy Awards only serves to highlight the missed opportunities for Hollywood. With the number of content platforms skyrocketing, the inclusion of people of color and marginalized communities remains an urgent need – both in front of and behind the camera. </li></ul>