The Oscars red carpet is not only a platform for glamour and style but also a stage for important social issues. This year, amidst the glitz and glamor of the Academy Awards, some attendees are planning to make a powerful statement by wearing red pins calling for a cease-fire in the Israel-Hamas war. In a season where many Hollywood stars have shied away from addressing the conflict, these red pins symbolize a bold stance for peace.

The red pins are a representation of solidarity with Artists4Ceasefire, a coalition of celebrities and members of the entertainment industry who have signed an open letter urging President Biden to call for an immediate cease-fire. Among the nearly 400 signatories are notable figures like Bradley Cooper, America Ferrera, Cate Blanchett, Drake, Ben Affleck, and Jennifer Lopez, all of whom have lent their voices to this important cause.

According to Artists4Ceasefire, the pins symbolize collective support for an immediate and permanent cease-fire, the release of all hostages, and the urgent delivery of humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza. The message is clear – compassion must prevail in the midst of conflict and suffering.

Each Artists4Ceasefire pin is designed as a glossy red quarter, featuring an image of a hand surrounding a small black heart. These pins have been making intermittent appearances throughout awards season, with stars like Mark Ruffalo, members of the indie rock trio boygenius, and actors Tony Shalhoub and Ebon Moss-Bachrach proudly wearing them on various red carpets.

Mark Ruffalo, a nominee for the Oscar for best supporting actor, spoke passionately about the importance of giving a cease-fire a chance at the Directors Guild of America Awards. “We’re not going to bomb our way to peace, and all we’re saying is, what’s wrong with giving a cease-fire a chance?” Ruffalo stated, echoing the sentiments of many who advocate for peaceful solutions to conflicts.

The Israel-Hamas war has claimed the lives of more than 30,000 people in Gaza, according to Gazan officials, and about 1,200 people were killed in Israel in the Hamas attack. The devastating toll of this ongoing conflict underscores the urgency of calling for a cease-fire and putting an end to the violence and suffering.

In recent years, award show red carpets have become platforms for stars to raise awareness about various social issues. From voicing support for refugees to solidarity with victims of sexual harassment, Hollywood celebrities have used their visibility to shed light on important causes. The red pins at this year’s Oscars signal a shift towards addressing the Israel-Hamas conflict and advocating for peace in a region plagued by violence.

As the Oscars approach, the Los Angeles Police Department is preparing for possible protests related to the Israel-Hamas war. Security around the Dolby Theater, where the award show is held, will be heightened to ensure the safety of attendees and to manage any potential demonstrations.

In a sea of glitz and glamour, the red pins on the Oscars red carpet serve as a reminder that even in the world of entertainment, there are voices advocating for peace, compassion, and humanity. The symbolic gesture of wearing these pins is a small yet powerful way for Hollywood stars to make a statement and call for an end to the violence in Gaza. As the world watches the Oscars, these red pins will stand out as a beacon of hope and solidarity for all those affected by the conflict in the Middle East.