LOS ANGELES (AP) – Viola Davis delivered a profound speech on self-worth, resilience, and collective progress during the 57th NAACP Image Awards held at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium near Los Angeles. In her remarks after receiving the NAACP's Chairman's Award, Davis emphasized the necessity of confronting truth and hardship as a means of fostering personal and national growth. "There is no becoming without healing and without a radical acceptance of one's truth," she stated, asserting that progress can only be achieved together.
The 60-year-old Oscar, Emmy, Tony, and Grammy winner reflected on her rise from childhood poverty in Rhode Island to becoming an internationally recognized figure. Davis shared her aspirations of wanting to be somebody, emphasizing that she equated success with significance. Her notable performances in films such as "The Help," "Ma Rainey's Black Bottom," and "Doubt," along with her captivating role in the television series "How to Get Away With Murder," have earned her widespread acclaim. Davis has achieved an EGOT status, having won a Grammy for the audiobook version of her memoir, "Finding Me," alongside two Tony Awards, an Emmy, and an Academy Award for the film adaptation of "Fences."
In a heartfelt moment, Davis expressed, "No one can describe the journey of going from the little chocolate girl searching for hope to the girl living a transcendent life."
Michael B. Jordan was honored as the entertainer of the year, capping off the event with an emotional acceptance speech. He also won the award for best actor for his dual performance as twin brothers in the film "Sinners." Jordan surpassed nominees such as Cynthia Erivo, Doechii, Kendrick Lamar, and Teyana Taylor for this prestigious award. During his speech, he paid tribute to his late friend and "Black Panther" co-star Chadwick Boseman, stating, "My best friend, Chad... I miss you every day." Jordan encouraged his hometown audience in Newark, New Jersey, to aspire to their goals with humility and compassion.
The night also saw the induction of hip-hop trailblazers Salt-N-Pepa into the NAACP Image Awards Hall of Fame, honoring their impactful contributions to music and their role in championing the representation of women in rap. The Grammy-winning trio, consisting of Cheryl "Salt" James, Sandra "Pepa" Denton, and DJ Spinderella, reflected on their legacy and influence, with Spinderella stating, "We didn’t know we were building a movement; we were just being ourselves."
The ceremony began with host Deon Cole, who infused sharp political humor into his monologue, touching on current issues such as immigration enforcement and alluding to the controversial BAFTA disruption involving Jordan and Delroy Lindo. Cole's delivery earned loud reactions from the audience as he humorously warned against inappropriate outbursts during the event.
In a touching moment, Colman Domingo received the President's Award, recognizing individuals who use their platforms to advance social justice and public service. Domingo acknowledged the influential figures in his life, including his mother and stepfather, while underscoring the importance of community support.
The ceremony also paid tribute to the Rev. Jesse Jackson, honoring his lifelong activism and influence in American politics and social justice movements. Actor Samuel L. Jackson delivered a heartfelt tribute to Jackson, who passed away on February 17 at the age of 84. Recognized as a protégé of Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., Jackson was a prominent figure during the Civil Rights Movement and continued advocating for marginalized communities through his Rainbow/PUSH Coalition, emphasizing messages of dignity and empowerment.
The ceremony, celebrating Black achievement across various fields, recognized significant contributors to film, television, music, and literature. Presenters like Regina Hall praised the nominees and winners, highlighting the collective accomplishments that define their industries.
