On the May cover of Ebony, Viola Davis and Taraji P. Henson liberate us from Beyonce’ and Mary J. Blige. These are two ladies who are definitely commanding presence and attention with their latest works. I am so glad that we continue to shatter the glass ceiling that people have set for us as a race. The President included!

Academy Award-nominees Viola Davis and Taraji P. Henson have both proven that when you know your worth, no one can take it from you. At the 81st annual Oscar ceremony, the two found themselves waiting to win the same award for best supporting actress. While the audience applauded for winner Penelope Cruz, they both shared in a symbolic moment that still remains dear. “We looked right at each other, we connected,” says Henson. “We had to have that moment, just for each other, to let each other know, ‘You know what? It’s still all good.’”

Viola also goes on to say:

“Black directors really don’t offer me movies,” says Davis, who takes no offense to this. “Most of the work I do is really in predominantly White films. That’s just how it works.”

That’s crazy. She’s always been a favorite of mine. If I had a role for her in a movie that I was writing/shooting, she’d definitely be one of my top choices. Her and Alfrie Woodard, cause Alfrie is my girl! I would used to say Angela, but her acting in that Biggie movie has me giving her the sideeye for a minute.