Jane Fonda, a figure often at the center of political controversy throughout her lengthy career, once again made waves during a recent appearance. Known for her bold stance on political and social issues, Fonda’s outspoken activism has earned her both praise and criticism over the years. The actress, who was infamously dubbed “Hanoi Jane” after a controversial photo of her sitting on a North Vietnamese anti-aircraft gun in 1972, has long been a polarizing figure.

Her activism dates back to the 1960s when she publicly supported the Civil Rights Movement and the Black Panther Party. These actions, while praised by some, led to harsh criticism from others, further cementing her reputation as a figure unafraid to speak her mind.

This past weekend, Fonda was honored with the Screen Actors’ Guild (SAG) Life Achievement Award, and she used the opportunity to voice her opinions, particularly about the current political climate. At 87 years old, Fonda is still an influential force, and the SAG Awards served as the perfect platform for her to make a statement in front of a wide audience.

In her acceptance speech, Fonda expressed her gratitude for the recognition, stating, “Thank you SAG AFTRA. Your enthusiasm makes this seem less like a late twilight of my life, and more like a ‘go girl, kick a**.’ Which is good because I’m not done.” This remark was not just a nod to her longevity in the industry, but also a declaration that she’s far from slowing down. The actress then turned the focus of her speech to a larger social issue, addressing the importance of empathy in the face of political and social divides.

Fonda defended the concept of “wokeness,” stating, “Empathy is not weak or ‘woke.’ And, by the way, ‘woke’ just means you give a damn about other people.” She continued, emphasizing the importance of understanding and compassion in the current political climate. “A whole lot of people are going to be hurt by what’s happening, by what’s coming our way,” she said. “We are going to need a big tent to resist what’s coming at us.”

She went on to explain that even people with differing political views should be treated with empathy, urging listeners to avoid judgment and instead “listen from our hearts, and welcome them into our tent.” Her words reflected her belief in unity and the power of compassion as a means of overcoming political challenges.

Fonda’s remarks came at a particularly tense time in US politics. With President Donald Trump’s administration facing increasing controversy, including his second term in office which many had feared would bring chaos, the political landscape seems more volatile than ever. Trump’s executive orders, combined with his often combative rhetoric, have only intensified divisions across the nation.

One of the more contentious aspects of Trump’s presidency has been his creation of the Department of Government Efficiency, a move that has drawn significant criticism. The department, led by Elon Musk, has been accused of undermining the efficiency of government functions rather than improving them. Additionally, Trump’s controversial stance on international relations, particularly his seeming alignment with Russian President Vladimir Putin in attempting to broker a resolution to the war in Ukraine, has sparked concern on the global stage.

Amid these ongoing challenges, Fonda’s call for empathy and a united front serves as a reminder of the need for civil discourse and mutual understanding, even in the face of deep political divides. Her impassioned plea for a “big tent” and the power of empathy may have been a subtle critique of the current political environment, encouraging individuals to set aside differences for the greater good.

As the political landscape continues to evolve, Fonda’s message reminds us of the importance of listening to others, regardless of political affiliation, and working together to navigate the difficult times ahead.