Red carpet, black dresses, golden trophies, and the most well known stars all in one night. This year, the 2018 Golden Globes were a bit different. Instead of ravishing, colorful dresses and different multi-colored tuxedos; glamorous, sleek, black outfits were worn by most of those attending. Celebrities did not drown themselves in black fabric to fulfill a cheeky red carpet theme, but rather as a silent protest against sexual misconduct in the workforce. Many also wore a Time’s up pin to show support for the recently launched organization, which provides legal aid to women struggling with harassment in the workplace.

“I think that wearing the color black in an attempt to bring more awareness to this issue was a great idea,” said junior Brett Nixon.

Why not angelic white, or fiery red? Black is known as a mysterious color. It is serious and professional and represents the unknown. Representing resistance, the Golden Globes red carpet leaned towards more difficult questions, instead of the typical “what brands are you wearing tonight?”

“This is a moment of solidarity, not fashion,” said actress Eva Longoria.

Times are changing, and not only are award shows all about recognition, but raising awareness for deep issues. Some actresses, such as Meryl Streep, Amy Poehler, Emma Watson, and more were accompanied by female activists. Natalie Portman and America Ferrera also opted out of the traditional male date and came with each other.

While some believe more than a silent protest wearing the color should have been done as a movement, another issue was present: None of the men attending the Golden globes spoke out about sexual misconduct. The interviewers, more notably on E! and NBC, aimed the majority of the questions about harassment towards women. While men spoke about their new, recent, or past projects, women were sought to answer tough questions on how they are helping this huge issue or bringing awareness.

“I think that it is really cool that they are doing something to show that they are all against sexual assault, but at the same time all they did was wear clothes,” said junior Jade Lazenby.

Many positive signs of growth and awareness for fighting against sexual misconduct were present at the 2018 Golden Globes. Silent protests do not always make an impact. This one, as minuscule as it may seem, will be sure to make more people aware, as celebrities have an immense influence on the majority of people today.