A Recap of the NAACP Image Awards

Toni Moore 

The 51st annual NAACP Image Awards was held Saturday night in the Civic Auditorium hosted by Black-ish star, Anthony Anderson. Every year, prominent leaders, activists, celebrities and business moguls within the black community come together to celebrate black excellence. 

The ceremony started off with four-time NAACP winner Jill Scott singing her hit song “They Way.” Following her performance with a live band was Grammy winner H.E.R. and Skip Marley performing rendition of “Turn Your Lights Down Low.” This iconic duo had the audience on their feet, but Rihanna’s acceptance speech really stole the show. 

The NAACP President’s Award was awarded to Rihanna for her outstanding public service for the community. Rihanna was dressed in a beautiful purple Givenchy Haute Couture dress but her outfit wasn’t the only thing catching fans' attention. After receiving the Presidential Award she made a huge political statement. 

"How many of us in this room have colleagues and partners and friends from other races, sexes, religions?" she asked. "Well then, you know, they want to break bread with you, right? They like you? Well then, this is their problem, too. So when we're marching and protesting and posting about the Michael Brown Jr.’s and the Atatiana Jefferson’s of the world, tell your friends to pull up." Rihanna receives a standing ovation and celebrities go to social media to praise Rihanna for her jaw-dropping acceptance speech.

 Following her speech, Lizzo was awarded Entertainer of the Year, beating Tyler Perry, Billy Porter, Angela Bassett, and Regina King. Outstanding Album, Song, and Female Artist were awarded to Beyoncé.  The hit sitcom Black-ish racked up a few awards as well; Outstanding Comedy Series, Outstanding Supporting Actress (Marsai Martin), and Actor (Deon Cole.) 

This award show was created to be a safe space to praise people of color for their accomplishments. Overall the 51st Annual NAACP Ceremony was filled with positivity and love for black people.