Beverly Bond was inspired to create Black Girls Rock after noticing the image of black women not being represented properly in mainstream media. Although she first thought it would be a cool idea for a T-shirt, she began to see the slogan as something that could be used as an affirmation for all black women. So she started the Black Girls Rock awards to honor black women for the great work that they do in a world that doesn’t always give them the recognition they deserve. –amir shaw
What was the overall goal beyond the awards ceremony with Black Girls Rock?
I felt it was important to mentor girls coming up who are the victims of the wrong message. And they don’t always have people in their lives to correct those messages and let them know that this is not OK. Being a female in a male-dominated field had a lot to do with the negative images and words that are directed at black women.
You promoted the show for several years before striking a deal with BET to broadcast the ceremony. How did that partnership come about?
Stephen Hill came to me back in 2007. By that time, we were having it at the Lincoln Center. Some of the women we honored included the Rutgers University basketball team. Stephen attended that year and we finally got the deal in place after a long negotiation.
For those watching for the first time, what surprises should they expect?
It’s a stellar show that will inspire people to reach for greatness. Through our positive struggles and adversity, strength, and beauty, I think people are going to walk away with a great feeling. I think people will be moved by the celebration.
Beverly Bond’s Black Girls Rock! Awards “A Brand New Experience” will air Nov. 7th on BET. Check your local listings.
