'We're not going away at 30!' Salma Hayek, 49, slams sexism in Hollywood as she gives impassioned speech at Power Of Women event

Salma Hayek has slammed sexism in Hollywood, proclaiming that her generation of actresses refused to disappear into obscurity after the age of 30.

The 49-year-old made the impassioned speech at Variety's Power Of Women event in Beverly Hills on Friday.

The star also went on to talk about the struggles of women all over the world and how her campaign Chime for Change has sought to be of use. 

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Making a difference: Hayek then talked about Chime For Change, which she co-founded with Beyonce and the fashion brand Gucci

Making a difference: Salma Hayek made the impassioned speech at Variety 's Power Of Women event in Beverly Hills on Friday

'We are the generation that said, "We’re not going away at 30,"' Salma declared, according to Variety news editor Maane Khatchatourian.

Adding:  'They cannot ignore us anymore.'

She went on to describe how women represent 66% of the workforce but 'only get 10% of the income of the world.'

Making a difference: Hayek then talked about Chime For Change, which she co-founded with Beyonce and the fashion brand Gucci

Later on: Jada Pinkett Smith chatted with the passionate activist

Later on: Jada Pinkett Smith chatted with the passionate activist

But she also spoke positively about the future: 'In the 20 years I have been an activist for women. I can smell the airs of change. Especially in this industry for the first time.'

Then speaking directly to the star-studded audience in attendance, which included Gwyneth Paltrow and Reese Witherspoon, Hayek made a bold statement.

'These romantic comedies are not working anymore. Why? We changed!,' she explained to uproarious applause.

Looking great! The 49-year-old set her fashion sights on stun
Looking great! The 49-year-old set her fashion sights on stun

Looking great! The 49-year-old set her fashion sights on stun

Emulate Salma's style with a Bottega Veneta woven bag

She just returned to LA from Paris Fashion Week, but Salma Hayak shows no signs of slowing down. The mother-of-one made a chic appearance at the Variety Power of Women event in a dress and bag by Bottega Veneta.

We immediately recognized the French brand's signature woven pattern that has been a draw for A-list celebs like Rumer Willis and Amanda Seyfried.

This season's newest additions include slouchy snakeskin bags, color block totes and mixed print options.

Click right to get Salma's crossbody silhouette in blue at Neiman Marcus. And if you're loving her scarlet hued carryall as much as we are, find one in its likeness in the carousel below.

* PRICES MAY NOT BE AS ADVERTISED
We OWN it: Oprah Winfrey stole a photo op with Susan Wojcicki, CEO of YouTube, Hayek, Gwyneth, and Kendrick

We OWN it: Oprah Winfrey stole a photo op with Susan Wojcicki, CEO of YouTube, Hayek, Gwyneth, and Kendrick

Hayek then talked about Chime For Change, which she co-founded with Beyonce and the fashion brand Gucci.

'In only two years … we have affected 3 million families and communities,' the actress and activist said.

The campaign benefits NGOs that empower women and girls the world over with education, health, and justice.  

Chime For Change has benefited over 400,000 girls and women around the world by raising over $7.3 million.

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