Karine Jean-Pierre, the White House Press Secretary of Joe Biden, has been selected as the inaugural recipient of Outfest’s Press and Media Achievement Award. However, Jean-Pierre has decided not to attend the ceremony to show her support for the ongoing strike by actors and writers in Hollywood.
Accoridng to Deadline, The 41st Outfest Los Angeles Summer Festival will acknowledge her contribution, but instead of attending, she has chosen to have a statement read on her behalf during the closing ceremony on July 23rd.
It is possible that Jean-Pierre chose not to attend the event due to the decision made by actors Melissa McCarthy and Ben Falcone, who announced their decision to skip the event in support of the Hollywood strikers. Damien Navarro, the Executive Director of Outfest, acknowledged their absence and expressed his regret in a statement, saying that he understands the reason for their absence.
The event will still proceed as planned and will include the presentation of the new LGBTQIAP2S+ achievement award. This award is part of the newly launched Outfest Inclusive Press Initiative for LGBTQIAP2S+ entertainment journalists, which will provide financial support to help journalists cover Hollywood. A group of young journalists will participate in the inaugural program.
“Outfest is thrilled to recognize the continued contributions of Karine Jean-Pierre for her barrier-breaking and historic achievement in Press and Media,” said Outfest Board Co-President Nii-Quartelai Quartey. “Throughout her career, the Black and LGBTQ+ community has been reminded of what is possible. Our fellow Americans have been reminded of our humanity and inherent dignity. Our Outfest Press Fellows have been inspired.”
Jean-Pierre has made efforts to maintain a connection with Hollywood. However, she faced criticism in March for allegedly undermining the seriousness of the White House press briefing. This occurred when she brought in actors from the Apple TV+ series, Ted Lasso, to promote the upcoming third season and discuss mental health.
