The Academy blasts ban that could bar Farhadi from 2017 Oscars

In response to reports that under Trump’s recently enacted travel ban, Oscar nominated Iranian filmmaker Asghar Farhadi would be barred from entering the US, an Academy spokesperson issued a statement.

“The Academy celebrates achievement in the art of filmmaking, which seeks to transcend borders and speak to audiences around the world, regardless of national, ethnic, or religious differences,” the statement said. “As supporters of filmmakers — and the human rights of all people — around the globe, we find it extremely troubling that Asghar Farhadi, the director of the Oscar-winning film from Iran ‘A Separation,’ along with the cast and crew of this year’s Oscar-nominated film The Salesman, could be barred from entering the country because of their religion or country of origin.”

Donald Trump signed an executive order on Friday refusing citizens of seven predominantly Muslim countries entry to the US for a period of 90 days.

People across the US held rallies in and out of airports to condemn Trump’s order. Farhadi’s picture could be seen on placards as a symbol of those who might be barred from entering the United States.

RSH/RSH