At the ACLU of Southern California’s Bill of Rights Awards, Mark Ruffalo expressed solidarity with attendees, urging them to channel their “despair” into action in the wake of Donald Trump’s recent election win.
The progressive actor, known for his activism and support of Vice President Kamala Harris, candidly admitted that “We got our asses kicked” while addressing the audience at the Beverly Hilton.
Ruffalo acknowledged the prevailing sense of grief and fear among the attendees, stating, “We suffered a great loss that deeply impacts the progress we’ve fought for and believed in for so long.”
In a moment of unity, Ruffalo encouraged everyone to stand up, embrace the person next to them, and reassure each other that “it’s going to be OK.”
Ruffalo emphasized the importance of taking action in the face of demoralization and despair, stating that “action is the very thing that pushes back despair.”
Other honorees at the event included WNBA star Brittney Griner, actor Will Ferrell, former “Saturday Night Live” writer Harper Steele, and author Viet Thanh Nguyen.
The ACLU SoCal Bill of Rights Awards aim to honor individuals who have contributed to creating a more just and inclusive world through their activism and craft.