Essence event affirms the power of black women in Hollywood There were laughs, tears and speeches that turned into sermons and affirmations at the star-studded Essence Black Women in Hollywood luncheonActress and honoree Niecy Nash waves to photographers at the 13th Annual ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood Awards Luncheon, Thursday, Feb. 6, 2020, in Beverly Hills, Calif. (AP Photo/Chris Pizzello) The Associated PressBEVERLY 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, black women need no validation from Hollywood — or elsewhere — to appreciate their self-worth. 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. Before the luncheon, Washington spoke of the importance of the luncheon. She credited the “extraordinary black women around me” for giving her the validation she needed, and paid special tribute to her mother, who was in the audience. Cast mate and Emmy-winner Billy Porter’s voice broke when he spoke about the importance of black transgender women being honored by Essence.

Source: ABC News February 07, 2020 04:18 UTC