Ariana DeBose made history at the 94th Academy Awards when she won Best Supporting Actress in West Side Story.
DeBose is the first openly queer woman to win an acting Oscar, as well as the first Afro-Latina. She comes primarily from a dance background and established her career on stage. She is the second actor to win an Oscar for playing Anita in West Side Story, the first being Rita Moreno for the 1961 film adaptation of the Broadway musical. DeBose spotlighted Moreno in her speech after thanking the West Side Story cast and creative team.
“I’m so grateful your Anita paved the way for tons of Anitas like me, and I love you so much,” DeBose said as a tearful Moreno watched from the audience.
She concluded her speech with encouragement for queer young people of color everywhere.
“You see an openly queer woman of color who found her strength in life through art, and that’s what I believe we are here to celebrate.” Ariana DeBose said, “So to anybody who has ever questioned your identity or find yourself living in the grey spaces, I promise you this: There is indeed a place for us.”
West Side Story is now streaming on Disney+ and HBO Max.
