Business
“SELMA” wins big at the NAACP Image Awards
On the TV side, Anderson won the award for best comedy series actor for “black-ish,” which was honored as best comedy series and captured a best actress trophy for Tracee Ellis Ross.
“To be able to do show about raising our black families every day is a blessing,” said “black-ish” creator and producer Kenya Barris.
“How to Get Away with Murder” was named best drama series, with star Viola Davis named best actress in a drama. “Criminal Minds” star Shemar Moore was named best actor in a drama series.
Spike Lee received the NAACP President’s Award, which recognizes those who have combined career success and public service. In his speech, the filmmaker addressed the obstacles facing blacks.
“This stuff is rigged. It is not set up for us to win. It has always been like that. Since we were stolen from mother Africa we always find to make a way,” he said, lifting his trophy.
U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder, the first African American to hold that office, accepted the NAACP Chairman’s Award honoring distinguished public service.
He said he was honored to carry on the Justice Department’s legacy that included ensuring “the most sacred of American rights, the right to vote.” Holder, who is leaving the job after 6 years, called on the nation to “reject the forces of hate and division.”
Veteran music industry executive Clive Davis, who nurtured the careers of artists including Whitney Houston, Aretha Franklin and Alicia Keys, received the Vanguard Award, which recognizes work that increases understanding of racial and social issues.
