Salma Hayek Pinault claims sexism needs to end in Hollywood, and she is ready to take the problem head on via her activism. The 49-year-old actress made the comment in a speech Friday at the Beverly Wilshire Four Seasons.
At 49, Salma Hayek Pinault has a strong message for Hollywood: she is here to stay. Hayek Pinault made the remark during a well-received speech at Variety‘s Power of Women luncheon. The event sponsored by Lifetime took place at the Beverly Wilshire Four Seasons Hotel on Friday. The Everly actress says it is time for Hollywood to address sexism in a meaningful way.
Hayek Pinault, who was introduced by her friend, Jada Pinkett Smith, stated:
“We are a fantastic generation. We are the generation who said, ‘Oh no, we’re not going away at 30. This is gonna change. I’m not going to work there anymore? OK, I’m going to start my own industry.'”
The Mexican-born movie star added:
“We are 66 percent of the work power of the world. However, we only get 10 percent of the income of the world. This is really, really sad and tragic.”
Hayek Pinault has taken a more activist role in the entertainment industry in recent years. For example, in 2013, she launched “Chime For Change” with Beyoncé Knowles and Frida Giannini, Gucci’s former fashion director. The Italian brand also backed the campaign that was aiming to empower women around the globe. The mother of one also shared:
“We have been complaining about the situation of women in this industry for years. I remember many people in Oscar speeches [mentioned] it, but just this year, with the very eloquent speech of Patricia Arquette, finally they heard it! They actually ask you about it! We are talking about it, we are looking for solutions. We are the generation that is going to experience the difference, the transformation.”
Hollywood’s gender gap is a real problem, but some commenters point out that young “hot” actresses often use the sexist system in place to advance their career.
