Jane Fonda, the legendary actress and activist, used her acceptance speech at the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards to deliver a powerful and politically charged message. Despite some audio issues, the 87-year-old actress persevered, using her platform to encourage activism and empathy in a world that sorely needs both. Fonda's speech, which touched on themes of late blooming, the importance of unions, and the power of empathy, resonated deeply with the audience and viewers alike.

Fonda, who received the SAG lifetime achievement award, began by reflecting on her own journey as a "late bloomer." She noted, "It’s okay to be a late bloomer as long as you don’t miss the flower show." For Fonda, the flower show was not just a metaphor for personal growth but also a nod to the recognition she received that evening. "I’m a late bloomer. This is the flower show," she said, gesturing to her statuette. Her words underscored the idea that it's never too late to bloom, a message that resonates in a world where many feel they have missed their chance.

Fonda's love for acting was evident as she described the power of the craft. "Yeah. I love acting. We get to open people’s minds to new ideas, take them beyond what they understand of the world and help ‘em laugh when things are tough, like now," she said. Her speech highlighted the transformative power of art, emphasizing how actors can use their platform to challenge perspectives and bring comfort in difficult times.

As an outspoken activist, Fonda did not shy away from addressing her political passions. She emphasized her belief in unions, particularly in a time when workers' rights are under attack. "And this is really important right now when workers’ power is being attacked, and community is being weakened," she said. Fonda's reference to the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) highlighted the unique role of actors as creators of empathy. Unlike other professions that produce tangible products, actors create something intangible yet powerful: empathy.

Fonda delved deeper into the concept of empathy, sharing her views on acting. "While you may hate the behavior of your character, you have to understand and empathize with the traumatized person you’re playing, right?" she said, using the example of Sebastian Stan's portrayal of Donald Trump in "The Apprentice." Her message was clear: empathy is not weakness, and being "woke" means caring deeply about others. "Make no mistake, empathy is not weak or woke," she noted. "And, by the way, woke just means you give a damn about other people."

Fonda's speech also addressed the current political climate, referencing the challenges facing the nation. "A whole lot of people are going to be really hurt by what is happening, what is coming our way," she said. She urged the audience to extend empathy even to those with different political views, emphasizing the importance of listening and understanding. "We need to call upon our empathy and not judge, but listen from our hearts and welcome them into our tent because we are going to need a big tent to resist successfully what’s coming at us," she said.

Throughout her speech, Fonda made references to defining moments in history, such as the Civil Rights movement, and emphasized that we are currently living in a "documentary moment." Her words were a call to action, urging everyone to recognize the historical significance of the present and to act accordingly. She ended her speech on a hopeful note, saying, "There will still be beauty, and there will be an ocean of truth for us to swim in" on the other side.

Jane Fonda's SAG Awards speech was more than just an acceptance speech; it was a powerful call to action. Her message of empathy, activism, and the importance of unions resonated deeply in a world that sorely needs these values. Fonda's reflections on late blooming, the power of art, and the necessity of empathy in difficult times offered a vision of hope and resilience. As she urged the audience to embrace their roles as creators of empathy and agents of change, Fonda reminded us all that it's never too late to bloom and that the flower show is always worth attending.

In conclusion, Jane Fonda's speech at the SAG Awards was a poignant reminder of the power of art, the importance of empathy, and the necessity of activism in turbulent times. Her message, delivered with grace and conviction, offered a vision of hope and resilience that resonated deeply with her audience. As we navigate the challenges of the present, Fonda's words serve as a powerful call to action, urging us all to embrace our roles as creators of empathy and agents of change.