Keke Palmer at the NAACP Image Awards Takes a Bold, Pro-Necklace Stance

Keke Palmer was surprised by her win at the NAACP Image Awards, when she took home the prize for Entertainer of the Year. In her acceptance speech, the One of Them Days actor said, “I didn’t think I was gonna win because…” then broke into Cynthia Erivo’s famous battle cry riff from Wicked.

But then, Palmer continued in a more serious tone about the importance and meaningfulness of celebrating this win during Black history month, and uplifting each other. “I just want to say it’s so important that we come here together and celebrate one another with one another,” she said. Palmer went on to quote her colleague, Aunjanue Ellis, who told her, “You don’t always have to ask for a seat at nobody’s table, just make your own table with your folks.” Palmer’s speech continued, “I’ve been in this industry more than 20 years. Nobody has uplifted me more than you all, the people in this room. I remember when Akilah and the Bee first came out and it didn’t do well in theaters and when it became available on DVD, that you all made it the classic that it is. And so, while we continue to ask for more money (’cause we need that!), it’s important that we remember that what we choose, and what we deem is important, is enough.”