Oscars

So here come the Oscars.

A big deal here in my office as we all make changes to schedules in order to promote it, but I can't help but thinking about those excessive gift bags the celebrities get just for presenting and it turns my stomach.

As I went through the list of gifts they each received last year each presenter walked away with a gift bag that was worth over 35,000$ American!

I think of all the people out there, all the causes and charities that could use as little as everyone’s daily coffee money and I'm shocked that such a reputable organization wouldn't take this opportunity to donate to charities in dire need.

Now I'm not sure of the logistics, but I think that everything that is given away to these 'Stars' (who have no need for these things as they clearly can afford to purchase them themselves) are donated by the people or companies who want to promote their products.

As an aspiring designer of baby bags and maternity coats I can certainly understand the need to want to promote - but what I suggest is this:

Everyone whose products are accepted to be a 'gift' within the bag should instead be given a commercial spot to run during the Oscars that enables the public to see their products but also informs the public that instead of giving away their product they have donated the worth of their product to a charity of their choice.

Although this may be expensive for the Oscars (and I'm still not clear on whether the Oscars accepts donations or purchase’s the gifts for the presenters themselves) it will/would bring a lot of positive hype their way.

In any event it may be too late for all this (in a good way) as I have just read that the Oscars have decided not to give out the gift bags this year or ever again.

Seems Edward Norton (my new hero) made such a stink about this last year that the Oscars have opted out of doing it anymore! Thank goodness - who new that speaking up about something might actually make a change? Source.

So my disgust-ion (not a word I know) has been subdued for the time being - and I will move over to dark side and watch the Oscars...I know, I disgust you.

:)