Spike Lee urges America to 'mobilise' against hate in powerful Oscars acceptance speech

'Make the moral choice between love versus hate'

Spike Lee has won the Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay for BlacKkKlansman.

The writer/director used gave a politically charged speech, calling on people to “mobilise” and “do the right thing”, a reference to his film Do The Right Thing.

“The month, February. The shortest month of the year that also happens to be Black History Month,” Lee said.

“The year 2019. The year 1619. 400 years since our ancestors were stolen from Africa. Our ancestors worked the land.

“My Grandmother who lived 100 years young, who was a Spelman College graduate even though her mother was a slave. My Grandmother who saved 50 years of social security cheques to put her first grandchild – she called me “Spikey-poo” – she put me through college and NYU film.

“Before the world tonight I praise our ancestors who helped built this country. We all connect with our ancestors who have love and wisdom, and who we gain our humanity.

“The 2020 election is around the corner. Let’s all mobilise. Let’s all be on the right side of history. Make the moral choice between love verses hate. Let’s do the right thing!”

The 2019 Oscars saw Rami Malek take home Best Actor for his portrayal of Freddie Mercury in Queen biopic Bohemian Rhapsody. Other winners included Olivia Colman for The Favourite and Alfonso Cuarón took home Best Director for his Netflix drama Roma. Green Book won Best Picture, proving a controversial choice over Roma.

You can find a full list of winners here.