Ava DuVernay used her speech to bring attention to the Exonerated Five and also brought to light the other cases of injustice happening worldwide.
What We Know:
- DuVernay said, “cases like this are happening all around the world, in this country, most specifically on our watch. People who are poor and innocent are behind bars while the rich and guilty walk free and gain power. The late poet Audre Lorde told us exactly what to do at times like this. She said, ‘When we speak, we are afraid our words will not be heard or welcomed. But when we are silent we are still afraid. So it is better to speak.” DuVernay also added, “Thank you to the critics for finally letting us take the stage,” after receiving a standing ovation from the audience.
- Jharrel Jerome, who played Korey Wise, also took home Best Actor In A Limited Series for his starring role in the show.
- Other winners included Ruth E. Carter, who won for costume design in Eddie Murphy’s Dolemite Is My Name. The film also won for Best Comedy award, and Murphy was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award.
- Jordan Peele’s film Us won for Best Sci-Fi movie. Regina King also won for Best Actress in a Drama Series for HBO’s Watchmen.
The Critics’ Choice Awards aired January 12 and was hosted by Taye Diggs.
