If you wanted to rub shoulders with the hottest entertainers of color, then you should have been at “Black Girls Rock” 2012. The Awards show, which honors achievers and women of color hosted some of Hollywood’s most fabulous stars, including show hostesses Regina King and Tracee Ellis Ross. Black Girls Rockwas founded by DJ Beverly Bond to celebrate black women and improve the image of black women in the media while raising money to empower young women of color with uplifting messages. The awards show was held at Loews Paradise Theatre in New York City and saluted leaders and creators in the fields of entertainment and beyond who epitomize the BGR mission of service.
“Scandal” actress Kerry Washington, Alicia Keys and Janelle Monae were among the list of women who were honored. Singing legend Dione Warwick, human rights activist Dr. Hawa Abdi and her daughters, and author Susan Taylor were also recognized for their social contributions. Keyshia Cole, Missy Elliot, Ciara, Alicia Keys, India Arie and Brandy all gave outstanding performances.
“This is the third year we’ve done it on TV and it’s amazing. We get phone calls and letters from so many girls telling us how inspired they are,” Bond tells the Amsterdam News. “The awards show is our once a year statement. We are still growing into ourselves. Our motto is ‘each one, teach one.’”
Black Girls Rock is now showing on BET. –yvette caslin
Photos by Dave Goodson for Steed Media Service
