Native talent among diverse group asked to join film academy

Actor Adam Beach, writer Sherman Alexie, producer Heather Rae and executive Joanelle Romero are among a diverse group of luminaries who have been invited to join the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.

The Academy produces the Oscars and has faced criticism for its lack of diversity. By extending invitations to a class of 683 artists and executives -- more than double the number from the year prior -- the organization has dramatically expanded the number of Native, women and people of color in its ranks.

Beach, who hails from the Saulteaux First Nation in Canada, was chosen for the Actors branch for his work in “Suicide Squad" and “Flags of Our Fathers." If he joins the Academy, he will help choose the nominees and winners in the Actors category.

http://www.indianz.com/News/2016/06/29/native-talent-among-diverse-group-asked.asp