All eyes were on Tracee Ellis Ross this afternoon as she graciously accepted the Fierce & Fearless award at the ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood luncheon. A few days ago the Black-ish star became ill and lost her voice, not knowing if she would attend the star-studded event and give an acceptance speech.
“I wasn’t supposed to be here,” says Ross. “Two days ago I didn’t have a voice; I went to work as a silent actress.”
ESSENCE’s 2016 Black Women in Hollywood Photo Booth
Though she struggled through a challenging time, the actress learned a lesson on self-acceptance, and was happy to share her truth with the crowd of attendees.
“[Not having a voice] helped me learn that I am not the sound of my voice,” she said. “I am me and I could be the same me without my voice.”
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Congrats on your award, Tracee. We couldn’t be prouder!