Why Tracee Ellis Ross’ Golden Globe Win Continues To Pave The Way For African-American Actors

At the 2017 Golden Globes, Tracee Ellis Ross won best actress in a television comedy or drama series. This marks Ross’ first visit and first  Golden Globe. Not only that, but it marked the first time that an African-American woman picked up the award since Debbie Allen did so in 1983.

“This is for all the women, women of color, and colorful people. Whose stories, ideas, thoughts are not always considered worthy and valid and important. But I want you to know that I see you; we see you. It is an honor to be on this show, Black-ish. To continue expanding the way we are seen and known. And to show the magic and the beauty and the sameness of a story and stories that are outside of where the industry usually looks.”

When informed of the incredible and unbelievable feat backstage, the “Black-ish” star was stunned. “It means a lot,” she told reporters, adding that she felt “special” to be grouped in with Allen. “I’m going to have to ponder [it] for the next couple days. More of it is for our industry to ponder. The work is there. The stories are there.”