The British Academy Film Awards (BAFTA) is currently facing scrutiny after the resignation of independent producer Jonte Richardson from its emerging talents jury. His departure came in protest against how the BAFTA and the BBC handled a racist insult that occurred during the awards ceremony, which he labeled as "totally unforgivable" on social media. Richardson accused the organization of failing to protect the dignity of Black guests and members, highlighting a history of "systemic racism" within the BAFTA.

The controversy arose from an incident involving activist John Davidson, who has Tourette syndrome and is the subject of the documentary 'I Swear.' During the awards ceremony, Davidson unintentionally uttered a racist term aimed at actors Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo. In response, the BAFTA issued a formal apology and took "full responsibility" for the incident, stating that Davidson's involuntary tics were beyond his control. Davidson also expressed his views on the situation, emphasizing the complexities surrounding his condition.

This incident has ignited a broader conversation about racism within the film industry, and it has raised questions regarding how organizations like the BAFTA handle sensitive situations, especially ones that involve marginalized communities. Critics are now calling for more substantial reforms within the BAFTA to ensure that future incidents are addressed with the gravity they require and to protect the integrity of all award participants.