Daily Local News (West Chester, PA)
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Essence event affirms the power of black women in Hollywood
BEVERLY HILLS, CALIF. >> Through laughs, tears and speeches that turned into sermons and affirmations, the overarching theme of this year’s star-studded Essence luncheon was that in an unforgiving industry that often overlooks them, black women need no validation from Hollywood — or elsewhere — to appreciate their self-worth.
“No one in this room derived from luck,” said “Captain Marvel” actress Lashana Lynch at Thursday afternoon’s Essence Black Women in Hollywood event. “We are a powerful force field that derived from greatness. We work hard on our craft and our self love, and have to remind ourselves daily that we deserve a seat at the table.”
“Queen & Slim” director Melina Matsoukas, another honoree, echoed Lynch’s sentiments when she received her award from “Insecure” actress and creator Issa Rae, who tapped Matsoukas to direct the hit HBO comedy series.
“It feels incredible to be seen, respected and have your work valued; it means more when that acknowledgement comes from your own community,” she said.
Matsoukas, who has also directed videos for A-listers including Beyonce’s “Lemonade” opus, added: “Recently I’ve been battling my own rage. As I keep saying, the daily onslaught of white supremacy and colonization is infuriating and also exhausting.”
“I shared my sentiments with Ms. (Ava) DuVernay the other night, and what she said went deep. It was simply: ‘Don’t let them steal your joy,’” she said to applause. “Since then, I’ve been thinking about how to reclaim my own joy.”
Attending the luncheon was certainly one way. The annual event is among the more festive and emotional of Oscars week and always attracts an A-list crowd: This year’s attendees included DuVernay, Kerry Washington, Janelle Monae, Cynthia Erivo, Lena Waithe, Sharon Osbourne, Brittany Howard, Gabrielle Union and Alfre Woodard (who honored Lynch).
Besides Lynch and Matsoukas, the director and cast of “Pose” and Emmy-nominee Niecy Nash were also honored.