Tonight, women of color, particularly Black women, are leading the 94th Academy Awards. Throughout the night, Regina Hall and Wanda Sykes will lead the way as two-thirds of the hosting trio. Alongside Sykes and Hall, H.E.R., Serena Williams and Venus Williams will also be in attendance. Not to mention, Aunjanue Ellis is at the Dolby Theater to celebrate the first Academy Award nomination of her illustrious career. At the moment, Ariana DeBose is in the spotlight.
Rising star Ariana DeBose is having the night of her life. Months after earning her first Academy Award nomination, DeBose became the first openly queer actor of color to win an Oscar for her performance in West Side Story. In a heartfelt speech, DeBose spoke openly about the obstacles and challenges she faced in getting to this moment. She also thanked Rita Moreno, who played the role of Anita in the original feature film.
“I’m so grateful your Anita paved the way for tons of Anitas like me. And I love you so much,” she said.
Check out DeBose’s full speech below.
Ariana DeBose is the first openly queer person of color to win an acting Oscar. https://t.co/YILAwH0cbk pic.twitter.com/8o5MzcyKyp
— Variety (@Variety) March 28, 2022
