In a historic moment for Native American representation in Hollywood, Lily Gladstone, the first Native American actress to be nominated for an Oscar, expressed her desire to be in Oklahoma with the Osage community when she received the news. Gladstone, who portrays a real-life character from the Osage community in Martin Scorsese's "Killers of the Flower Moon," wanted to be close to Mollie Kyle and her family, the inspiration behind her character. She decided to be in Pawhuska, Oklahoma, where the Osage reservation is located, to pay her respects once the celebrations were over.

As the nominations were announced, Gladstone's parents were FaceTiming her. However, instead of watching the TV screen, she asked them to flip the camera around so she could see their reactions. Amidst the chaos of her parents cheering and her dog barking, Gladstone could faintly hear her name being mentioned. The excitement and joy in her parents' faces overwhelmed her, creating a truly unforgettable moment.

Gladstone's nomination did not come as a surprise, as she has received widespread acclaim for her performance in "Killers of the Flower Moon" since the film's release in October. Earlier this month, she won a Golden Globe, further solidifying her talent and dedication to the craft. She has consistently emphasized the significance of this moment, highlighting the importance of Indigenous representation in the industry.

"It's what I've been saying this whole time, and I still absolutely feel it," Gladstone passionately expressed. "It happens to be that I'm carrying this honor right now... (but) it's all so long overdue. It's a real moment of restoration, placing Indigenous talent in these roles, spotlighting their humanity... I think it is shattering a lot of stereotypes people have about Indigenous women, particularly Native American women."

Gladstone firmly believes that Indigenous actors and storytellers are finally taking their rightful place in the industry, although it has taken a long time to get there. This nomination marks a significant step towards the recognition and appreciation of Indigenous talent, breaking down barriers and challenging preconceived notions.

As the excitement continues to build around the Oscars, Lily Gladstone's nomination serves as a powerful reminder of the progress being made in Hollywood towards inclusivity and representation. Her presence in Oklahoma, surrounded by the Osage community, symbolizes the importance of staying connected to one's roots and paying homage to the real-life individuals who inspire these remarkable performances.