Of course, winning an Emmy for Best Lead Actress in a Drama Series was a monumental career moment for Violas Davis, as it would be for any working actress. But it was also an equally big moment for African-American actresses as a whole, as she became the first to ever snag the award.
Davis, who won for her acclaimed role as Annalise Keating in ABC's How to Get Away With Murder, made an emotional speech that became a highlight of the night. She quoted Harriet Tubman, praised fellow stars of color who have helped break stereotypes, and importantly thanked those who have given her a chance to showcase her talent.
"Let me tell you something, the only thing that separates women of color from anyone else is opportunity. You cannot win an Emmy for roles that are simply not there," Davis said. "So here's to all the writers… people who have redefined what it means to be beautiful, to be sexy, to be a leading woman."
Like Denzel Washington's awe-inspiring speech for a 2015 graduating class, Davis also touched many, including a teary-eyed Kerry Washington and Taraji P. Henson, who was also nominated for her role as Cookie Lyon on Fox's Empire. It's impossible to miss their emotional reactions.
Watch the popular moment below and please SHARE if it also touched you!
