Award-winning actress Viola Davis is using her platform to shed light on the disparities faced by women of color in the film and television industry. In an interview with Yahoo News’s show “Through Her Eyes,” Davis emphasized the importance of white women understanding the experiences of women of color, and the need for empathy and education to bridge the gap.
As an African-American actress in an industry that is still predominantly white, Davis is pushing for a change in how women of color are portrayed in media, as well as how white women perceive their own privilege. She highlighted the different ways that privilege is seen, particularly in issues of beauty and femininity, and emphasized the need for understanding and solidarity among women of different racial backgrounds.
Davis, who experienced poverty and hardship in her childhood, also spoke about the anonymity and rejection that comes with being in a lower socio-economic status. She opened up about her personal experience with prediabetes, and the impact of food deserts on poorer communities. Davis stressed the importance of raising awareness about the effects of poverty on health and well-being, and the need for better access to fresh, organic foods for all communities.
The actress also shared her personal journey of overcoming adversity, including her triumph as the first African-American to win the “Triple Crown of Acting” – a Tony, an Emmy, and an Oscar. Despite her success, Davis remains grounded in her commitment to advocacy and using her platform to raise awareness about important social issues.
In an era where movements such as #MeToo and #BlackLivesMatter are gaining momentum, Viola Davis’s message of unity and understanding is especially resonant. Her call for empathy and education serves as a powerful reminder that in order to achieve progress and equality, it is essential for women to stand together, recognize their differences, and work towards a more inclusive and equitable society.