Film director Steven Spielberg shares insights on intuition, historical study, and dealing with hatred humanely, as presented in his 2016 Harvard commencement address.
Steven Spielberg's Call to Action at Harvard University Commencement
In a powerful address at Harvard University's 365th Commencement in 2016, filmmaker Steven Spielberg encouraged the graduating class to connect with each other, foster empathy, and take action against hate and discrimination.
Spielberg, known for his work on iconic films like Indiana Jones and Jurassic Park, emphasized the importance of understanding one's past and the stories of one's ancestors. He urged the graduates to remember the sacrifices of those who fought for freedom and to reflect their deeds in every generation.
The director, who founded the Shoah Visual History Foundation to tell the stories of Holocaust survivors, implored the graduates to never forget the atrocities of the past and to stand against hatred and discrimination in the present. He expressed concern about the rise of racism, homophobia, ethnic hatred, class hatred, political hatred, and religious hatred in the world.
Spielberg also emphasized the importance of intuition and courage in one's life, and the need for support in being courageous. He encouraged the graduates to stay connected, never losing eye contact, and to talk to their parents and grandparents about their stories.
In his address, Spielberg encouraged the graduates to act upon their empathy, urging them to vote, peaceably protest, and speak up for those who can't. He concluded his speech by wishing the graduating class a true, Hollywood-style happy ending, encouraging them to outrun the T. rex, catch the criminal, and go home when needed.
Spielberg's speech at Harvard University's Commencement was a moving call to action, inspiring the graduates to make a positive impact in the world and to never forget the importance of empathy, courage, and understanding.
In addition to his work on West Side Story and the upcoming Jurassic World Dominion, Spielberg has created a diverse range of films, including Sugarland Express, Star Wars, Raiders of The Lost Ark, and War Horse. He has also collaborated with composer John Williams, actor Mark Rylance, and Tom Hanks on several films.
References:
- Harvard University Commencement Speeches
- Steven Spielberg's 2016 Harvard University Commencement Speech
- Steven Spielberg's Inspirational Quotes from Harvard Commencement Address
- Steven Spielberg's inspiring leadership at Harvard University's Commencement in 2016 emphasized the importance of empathy and action in the face of hate and discrimination, intertwining news about his calls for unity with general-news discussions.
- In his address, Spielberg called upon the graduates to remember their past and the stories of their ancestors, connecting education-and-self-development with lifestyle choices.
- As a successful filmmaker, Spielberg's message of standing against hatred and discrimination resonates with the business world, encouraging both empathy and action in corporate leadership.
- Technology, as a tool for communication and collaboration, can help amplify the message of empathy and action championed by Spielberg, revolutionizing the way news travel and impacting our lifestyles.
