John Davidson, the Tourette’s activist at the center of the BAFTA Film Awards backlash, has issued a statement after he shouted a racial slur at presenters Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo during the ceremony.
“I can only add that I am always deeply ashamed if anyone considers my tics to be intentional or to have any meaning,” said Davidson, whose life inspired the BAFTA nominee. I swear. He was present as executive producer of the film, which won star Robert Aramayo the Best Actor award at the BAFTA in a huge surprise.
“I wanted to thank BAFTA and everyone involved in last night’s awards show for their support and understanding and for inviting me to attend the broadcast,” Davidson continued. “I expressed my appreciation for the announcement made to the room prior to taping, and warned everyone that my tics are not voluntary and are not a reflection of my personal beliefs. I was encouraged by the round of applause that followed this announcement and felt welcomed and understood in an environment that would normally have been impossible for me.
“I was there to celebrate the movie of my life, I swearwhich explains more than any documentary or television film the origins, condition, features, and manifestations of Tourette Syndrome. I have spent my life trying to support and empower the Tourette’s community and teach empathy, kindness, and understanding from others, and I will continue to do so. I chose to leave the hall early in the concert because I was aware of the distress the tics were causing me.
Tourette syndrome is a condition characterized by sudden, involuntary, repetitive movements or sounds, called “tics.” It could manifest itself as loud expletives or other outbursts, which BAFTA attendees were warned before the show on Sunday night, and before Davidson left the ceremony.
Davidson’s statement comes after BAFTA’s official apology to Jordan and Lindo. “Our guests heard extremely offensive language that carries unparalleled trauma and pain for many,” this statement began. “We want to acknowledge the damage this has caused, address what happened and apologize to everyone… and we would like to thank them.” [Davidson] “For his dignity and respect for others, on what should have been a night of celebration for him,” BAFTA added.
The UK charity Tourette’s Action also took to Instagram to defend the activist, stressing that his statements “do not reflect a person’s beliefs, intentions or character.”
“We are extremely proud of John and everyone involved I swear “After last night’s BAFTA Awards, the post began. “The film has already raised a lot of awareness about Tourette’s Syndrome and the daily reality faced by those with the condition. The impact it has had on audiences, families and members of the Tourette’s community is tremendous, and we couldn’t be more grateful for the support the film continues to receive.
“This moment reflects exactly what I swear Visible overt: the isolation, misunderstanding, and emotional heaviness that often accompany this condition. People with Tourette’s syndrome constantly control their physical and social environments and their symptoms. The price of misunderstanding is increased isolation, and the risk of anxiety, depression, and death by suicide… We hope commentators will take the time to watch the film, learn about Tourette’s, and understand the experiences behind moments like these. Education is key, and compassion makes a world of difference.
