Anthony Anderson hosted the NAACP Image Awards show on Feb. 5, airing on TV One, honoring performers in film and TV, with previous awards presented on Feb. 4 for achievement in music, literature and animation.
During the awards show, NAACP president Cornell William Brooks presented John Legend with the President’s Award for his public service. Performers took the stage to sing Legend’s “Ordinary People” and Oscar-winning song “Glory” from Selma.
Legend accepted the award after singing his hit “All of Me,” thanking his team, his wife Chrissy Teigen and the NAACP. “We know that we stand on the shoulders of giants who risked their lives to bring us closer to true freedom,” Legend said. “And of course, we are still fighting for freedom,” he added, noting police injustice, before sending out an inspiring and positive message. “I’m hopeful that our generation will demand and achieve radical change in our lifetime.”
“Our lives should, indeed, matter just as much as anyone else’s,” he said. “Fighting for justice isn’t an act of hate, it’s an act of love. So let’s spread love, let’s make the world a more beautiful and just place. We have so much opportunity, let’s not waste it.”
NAACP Chairwoman Rosyln Brock also presented the annual Chairman’s Award to several recipients, including: Brittany “Bree” Newsome; Justice League NYC; Concerned Student 1950 Collective at the University of Missouri, Columbia; The University of Mississippi NAACP College Chapter; Rev. Dr. Otis Moss III; Rev. Dr. Howard-John Wesley; Rev. Dr. Jamal Harrison Bryant, and Jussie Smollett.