Now for the absolute most moving moment of the Oscars
Patricia Arquette may be responsible for the Oscars’ moment that made as all scream “YASSSS” in solidarity, but the Oscars’ moment that sent tears streaming down our cheeks and chills up our spine was Common and John Legend singing their song “Glory” from the film Selma.
The song is stunning and manages to be both historic and current all at once — a tribute to both Martin Luther King Jr. and those who fought for civil rights alongside him, as well as those fighting for equal rights in Ferguson and other cities around the country today. The two took the stage as the expected winners and during their absolutely incredible performance proved 10,000% why their beautiful song was worthy of an Oscar.
To anyone who missed the performance, please, please, please watch. John Legend’s voice is a gift. It is gorgeous times 1,000 (and that is a gross understatement).
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZWE2Yb_jMZg
The reaction in the crowd was exceptional. A standing ovation, naturally, but also teary eyes around the room. David Oyelowo (who plays Dr. King in the film) had tears streaming down his face.
Oprah was emotional as well and the image of her touching David Oyelowo’s face in solidarity is amazing and will stay with us.
As fate would have it, the next award to be given was the award for Best Song. John Legend and Common won. With the room still bursting with emotion the two accepted their award by giving a truly brilliant speech.
“The struggle for justice is right now,” John Legend said as they accepted their awards. “We know that right now, the struggle for freedom and justice is real . . . There are more black men under correctional control today than there were in slavery in 1850.” Watch their acceptance speech below because it’s packed with so much heart, knowledge and hope.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UNWkMMS3vOY
Although Selma didn’t win Best Picture, in many ways it won the whole Oscar event, trumping so many other moments with a powerful performance and sobering message about the need for justice, equality and change today.
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