American Superstar, Beyoncé Giselle Knowles-Carter, received BET’s 2020 Humanitarian Award on Sunday, June 28, 2020 in recognition of her philanthropic contributions to humanity.
Beyoncé was picked for her work with foundation BeyGOOD – an initiative she developed during her Mrs. Carter Show World Tour in 2013, which partners with local charities across America to provide funding and awareness.
Most recently, BeyGOOD announced a $6million project to support African-Americans during the current COVID-19 pandemic, including mental health and personal wellness care, testing and medical supplies, and food supplies and delivery.
Michelle Obama presented the honor to the superstar, who also happens to be the friend of the former first lady.
Obama praised Beyoncé for her passion, accomplishments and activism: “To my girl, I just want to say you inspire me,” Obama said. “You inspire all of us”.
Beyoncé used her acceptance speech to advocate for voting in the upcoming election and “[continuing] to change and dismantle a racist and unequal system”, dedicating her honor to all those who have been marching in support of racial equality.
“Your voices are being heard and you’re proving to our ancestors that their struggles were not in vain,” she said in a pre-recorded acceptance speech.
“Now we have one more thing we need to do to walk in our true power and that is to vote. I’m encouraging you to continue to take action. Continue to change and dismantle the racist and unequal system”.
“We have to vote like our life depends on it, because it does,” she added.
Following the release of her latest song, “Black Parade,” Beyoncé created BeyGOOD’s Black Business Fund, administered by the National Urban League, to support Black-owned small businesses.
The BET Awards is an American award show established by the Black Entertainment Television network to celebrate African Americans and other American minorities in music, acting, sports, and other fields of entertainment.
Founded to offer programming for the Black community, BET celebrates its 40th anniversary this year and the awards show marked its 20th anniversary.
