Kerry Washington received the Elevate Prize Catalyst Award and a $250,000 grant at the Sundance Film Festival’s Democracy on the Screen – and on the Line event, recognizing her dedication to civic engagement and the protection of democratic freedoms.
A Legacy of Advocacy
The Elevate Prize Catalyst Award acknowledges individuals who leverage their influence for positive global change. Washington joins a distinguished group of past recipients including Dwyane Wade, Michael J. Fox, Matt Damon, George Clooney, Amal Clooney, Sesame Street Workshop, and Malala Yousafzai. Washington expressed feeling honored to be included among such “incredible change makers.”
The funding will directly support the mission of Washington’s foundation and production company, Simpson Street. She noted that Elevate’s goal to “make good famous” aligns with her own advocacy work, which began to crystallize after the 2016 election when viewers turned to her Scandal character, Olivia Pope, for solutions.
Shifting the Focus to Grassroots Leaders
Washington realized the attention should be directed toward real-life activists and organizers. As she stated, “Olivia Pope’s not real,” and “you, I, and every single person has more power than Olivia Pope.” Through her foundation, she aims to amplify the voices of these leaders by providing resources and media training.
Washington’s commitment to social change extends back to her teenage years, when she participated in a peer-to-peer theater program addressing issues like safer sex, HIV prevention, and substance abuse. This early experience solidified her belief in the power of art and activism.
Storytelling as a Force for Change
Washington believes in the importance of telling stories that “uplift our humanity and our value,” particularly in a climate where those stories are often marginalized. She prioritizes projects through Simpson Street that are rooted in truth and justice, and she is careful to avoid roles that diminish Black women.
She has also joined the upcoming season of Nevertheless as an executive producer. Titled Nevertheless: Democracy Defenders, the series will highlight grassroots leaders confronting challenges to civil liberties globally. Washington described the series as a global extension of her foundation’s VIP Cohort program, which supports activists with training and financial backing.
For those feeling overwhelmed by political issues, Washington encourages community involvement, emphasizing that even minor contributions can make a difference. She stated, “Figure out what it is that you can offer and give of yourself,” and that collective action can combat feelings of isolation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What award did Kerry Washington receive?
Kerry Washington received the Elevate Prize Catalyst Award, along with an unrestricted $250,000 grant.
What is Simpson Street?
Simpson Street is Kerry Washington’s foundation and production company.
What is the focus of the upcoming season of Nevertheless?
The upcoming season of Nevertheless, titled Nevertheless: Democracy Defenders, will highlight grassroots leaders confronting polarization and threats to civil liberties worldwide.
How do you believe individuals can contribute to positive change in their communities?