Essence event affirms the power of black women in Hollywood
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, black women need no validation from Hollywood — or elsewhere — to appreciate their self- worth.
“No one in this room derived from luck. We are a powerful force field that derived from greatness,” said “Captain Marvel” actress Lashana Lynch at Thursday afternoon’s Essence Black Women in Hollywood event. “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 them, I’ve been thinking about how to reclaim my own joy.”