In celebration of women in the areas of entertainment, education, philanthropy, and health, “Black Girls Rock,” in its 5th year, aired on BET last night. Legendary drummer Sheila E got the crowd dancing out of their seats with her stellar performance of the 1984 hit “Glamorous Life.” First Lady Michele Obama, the most obvious standout, captured the heart and minds of the young and more seasoned women of color with her empowering words and personal stories of triumph.
[Related: Black Girls Rock: Cicely Tyson and Michelle Obama Wow Audience with Speeches]
Black Girls Rockâ„¢, founded by celebrity DJ and philanthropist, Beverly Bond, is a multifaceted movement dedicated to shifting the culture of media images and empowering women and girls. Since 2006, the nonprofit organization has been committed to enriching girls through leadership, education, and positive identity development programs.
By the time audiences indulged in a full 20 minutes of BRC, the message was loud and clear–”Black Girls Rock.” We are powerful. We are capable of defining our own opportunities. And, “any achievement that any woman makes is an achievement for us all.”
Unlike mainstream award shows, Black Girls Rock gives trailblazers such as Nadia Lopez, principle at Motts Hall Academy, an opportunity to share the stage with more obvious pioneers and catalysts for change such as Cicely Tyson and Eryca Baydu.
From First Lady Michelle Obama and Ava Duvernay’s awe inspiring words to Fantasia and Jill Scott’s groundbreaking performances, there were a quite a few moments that set the Twittersphere on fire. In case you missed it, here is a storify recap.
What were your favorite moments from the show?