As we head into awards season, we can’t help but remember some of the most inspiring, tear-jerking moments when Black actresses have been recognized for their achievements. We’ve gathered some of our favorite acceptance speeches that are sure to uplift you and inspire.
Hattie McDaniel- Oscar, Best Supporting Actress
McDaniel was the first Black woman in history to win an Academy Award for her role in Gone with the Wind. Her win has become a “beacon of hope” for Black actresses ever since.
Halle Berry- Oscar, Best Actress
Through tears of joy, Halle Berry dedicated her historic Oscar win to all of the Black actress who paved the way for her, and to every “nameless, faceless person of color” with a dream. Grab your tissues.
Jennifer Hudson- Golden Globe, Best Supporting Actress
This acceptance speech even made Beyoncé cry.
Lupita Nyong’o- ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood, Best Breakthrough Performance
There was not a dry eye in the house when Nyong’o stepped down from the podium at ESSENCE’s Black Women in Hollywood Luncheon. Her speech about Black beauty continues to inspire young girls of color all over the world.
Lupita Nyong’o- Oscar, Best Supporting Actress
Of course, we had to add Lupita twice. She reminded us once again that all dreams are valid when she accepted her Oscar for 12 Years A Slave.
Audra McDonald- Tony Award, Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role
Audra used her acceptance speech to shine a spotlight on the role her family played in her Tony win and dedicated her award to all of the women who blazed the trail in entertainment before her.
Viola Davis- People’s Choice Awards, Favorite New TV Actress
Last, but certainly not least, we have Viola Davis, who’s leading the way for people with her kind of “classic beauty” to be accepted in Hollywood.
Who would you add to this list?