Angela Bassett Wins 1st Oscar

Regina King Honored Angela stating: “So many times I’ve heard people say that Angela is the very embodiment of Black excellence—but let me correct that,” King said, as noted by Essence. “She has a perspective and a voice, and beauty, that is unapologetically Black. But what she embodies at her core, is beyond anything that is skin deep. She is artistic excellence, embodied in human form.” As Bassett took the stage, she embraced King and gave her a kiss on the lips. “This honor isn’t just for or about me,” Bassett said. “What I hope this moment means is that we are taking the necessary steps toward a future in which it is the norm, not the exception, to see and embrace one another’s full humanity, stories and perspectives. This must be our goal, and to always remember that there is room for us all.” She finished her speech by referencing the legendary poet Maya Angelou. “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel,” she said. Check out her full acceptance speech below.