UTA cancels Oscar party in favour of refugee rally

United Talent Agency is scrapping its annual Oscar party in favour of making a donation to a group that is fighting against Donald Trump's travel ban.
The agency will instead donate USD 2,50,000 to the American Civil Liberties Union, the group that has seen a temporary victory in legally challenging Trump's travel ban and International Rescue Committee, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
"This is a moment that demands our generosity, awareness and restlessness. Our world is a better place for the free exchange of artists, ideas and creative expression.
"If our nation ceases to be the place where artists the world over can come to express themselves freely, then we cease, in my opinion, to be America," said UTA CEO Jeremy Zimmer.

The agency will also be hosting a pro-immigration rally here on February 24 , two days before the Oscars ceremony.
"When fear and division get the better of a society, artistes are among the first to feel the impact - and to denounce the ill winds," Zimmer added.