Ariana DeBose makes history at 2022 Oscars
The broadcast was live on March 27th. West Side StoryStar was awarded the Best Supporting Actress Award. She is also the first Afro Latina, and openly lesbian woman of color to receive an Academy Award for Acting.
“Imagine this little girl in the back seat of a white Ford Focus,” she shared while holding back tears inside the Dolby Theatre. Take a look into her eyes. You see an openly queer woman of color and Afro Latina who found her life and strength in art. That’s what I believe we’re here to celebrate.”
“To anybody who has ever questioned your identity ever, ever, ever, or you find yourself living in the gray spaces, I promise you this,” Ariana continued. There is a place for all of us.”
Instantly, the speech received an enormous round of applause and support from all her nominees. Kirsten DunstAnd Judi Dench.