“To my fellow Black actresses, fill your hearts with courage and strength, because regardless of what you may think or see or feel your contributions do matter,” Angela said onstage. “Take comfort knowing that your performances have given hope, offered a different perspective and, for others, just pure joy in a time of need. Never allow fear, frustration or disappointment to get in the way of the blessings that are divinely and deservedly yours.”
She noted, “This honor isn’t just for or about me. What I hope this moment means is that we are taking the necessary steps toward a future in which it is the norm, not the exception, to see and embrace one another’s full humanity, stories, and perspectives. This must be our goal.”
