Phylicia Rashad
On this date in 2004, the first Black actress won a “Tony Award” for a leading dramatic role.
Phylicia Rashad made theatrical history. She received the prize for her portrayal of Lena Younger, the tough-minded matriarch in a revival of "A Raisin in the Sun."
Rashad said in accepting the award: "Often I've wondered, what does it take for this to happen. And now I know. It takes effort and grace, and in my life, that grace has taken numerous forms. The first was the family into which I was born, parents who loved and wanted me, and a mother who fought fearlessly, courageously, consistently so that her children, above all else, could realize their full potential as human beings."
